http://www.reducedshakespeare.com Reducing Expectations Since 1981. Mon, 17 Jun 2013 20:00:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1 "A bright, breezy, and entertaining affair, well stocked with interviews, features, and excerpts from the shows!" So said The Telegraph (UK) when it named the RSC Podcast one of its Top Podcasts. Backstage drama. Touring trauma. Famous Guests. Infamous quests. Literary analysis. No urinalysis. All this and less – on the Reduced Shakespeare Company Podcast. Find old podcast episodes here. It’s “All Things Reduced” every Monday – and it’s free! REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY rss@reducedshakespeare.com rss@reducedshakespeare.com (REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY) 2013 Reduced Shakespeare Company The Reduced Shakespeare Company Podcast reduced,shakespeare,company,comedy,podcast,reed,martin,austin,tichenor,matt,rippy http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/powerpress/rsc-rss.jpg http://www.reducedshakespeare.com TV-PG Sonoma, CA Weekly http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/06/episode-314-development-of-comedy/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/06/episode-314-development-of-comedy/#comments Mon, 17 Jun 2013 19:59:40 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8582 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/06/episode-314-development-of-comedy/feed/ 0 Cincinnati Playhouse,Comedy,dramaturg,Merrimack Rep,Playwrighting,Playwrights,Writing Austin Tichenor and Reed Martin take time out from their writing to talk about how the creation of their eighth collaboration, The Complete History of Comedy (abridged), is going. Featuring off-color terms of art, Austin Tichenor and Reed Martin take time out from their writing to talk about how the creation of their eighth collaboration, The Complete History of Comedy (abridged), is going. Featuring off-color terms of art, new (but self-imposed and good) pressures, the advantages of finding a structure, the challenges of narrowing and focusing the topic, actual sounds of playwrighting recorded in the wild, and finally the sheer fun of making funny. (Length 20:03) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 20:03 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/06/episode-340-directing-a-comedy/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/06/episode-340-directing-a-comedy/#comments Mon, 10 Jun 2013 21:51:02 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8568 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/06/episode-340-directing-a-comedy/feed/ 0 Acting,acting technique,Backstage,Cincinnati Playhouse,Comedy,Radio Show,Rehearsals,Rehearsing,RSCUK,Training,Writers Theatre We share thoughts about comedy with director William Brown, who talks about his Writers' Theatre production of David Ives' The Liar which is earning rave reviews this month in Chicago. Featuring the joys of being at the epicenter of the action, We share thoughts about comedy with director William Brown, who talks about his Writers' Theatre production of David Ives' The Liar which is earning rave reviews this month in Chicago. Featuring the joys of being at the epicenter of the action, the advantages of actor investment, the truth about technique, the differences between Moliere and Corneille, jokey distinctions between actors from different cities, the tricks of casting, a special appearance by Olivier Award-winner Tim Minchin, an appreciation of the American Conservatory Theatre training program, excerpts from the BBC World Service production of the Reduced Shakespeare Radio Show, and the most underrated aspect of Chicago's theatrical history. (Length 20:00) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 20:01 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/06/episode-339-joss-whedon-shakespeare/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/06/episode-339-joss-whedon-shakespeare/#comments Mon, 03 Jun 2013 20:43:50 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8542 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/06/episode-339-joss-whedon-shakespeare/feed/ 0 Acting,acting technique,Backstage,Dollhouse,Film,Franklin and Bash,Homicide,ImprovOlympic,Joss Whedon,Julliard,Michael Witmore,Much Ado Reed Diamond plays Don Pedro in Joss Whedon's film adaptation of Much Ado About Nothing and talks not only about the process of acting in and shooting one of Shakespeare's most beloved plays, but the specific pleasures Shakespeare affords. Reed Diamond plays Don Pedro in Joss Whedon's film adaptation of Much Ado About Nothing and talks not only about the process of acting in and shooting one of Shakespeare's most beloved plays, but the specific pleasures Shakespeare affords. Featuring a reduced schedule, how he became part of the Whedonverse, inspired direction, amazing craft service, keeping it honest, the advantages of shooting a party scene at a real party, and the perils, pitfalls, and ultimately pleasures of classical training. (Length 20:50) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 20:50 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/05/episode-338-an-actors-wife/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/05/episode-338-an-actors-wife/#comments Mon, 27 May 2013 15:30:06 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8515 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/05/episode-338-an-actors-wife/feed/ 1 Acting,Actors,Adrian Scarborough,Backstage,Interview,Jeni Barnet,Touring,V&A Actor's wife (and former RSC stage manager) Rose Scarborough talks to other actor's wives (and husbands) for her ongoing archival project "An Actor's Wife For Me: The Changing Role of the Actor's Wife - 1950s to the Present Day" -- and now talks to us ... Actor's wife (and former RSC stage manager) Rose Scarborough talks to other actor's wives (and husbands) for her ongoing archival project "An Actor's Wife For Me: The Changing Role of the Actor's Wife - 1950s to the Present Day" -- and now talks to us about talking to them. Featuring the lot of the actor's wife, the special plight of the famous actor's wife, the fact that 'wife' is gender-neutral, the perils of re-entry (and one solution to it), technological advances, the challenges of long-distance marriages, and the necessity of explaining Chekhovian sideburns. (Length 21:54) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 21:54 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/05/episode-337-professor-peter-holland/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/05/episode-337-professor-peter-holland/#comments Mon, 20 May 2013 22:16:14 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8501 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/05/episode-337-professor-peter-holland/feed/ 0 Cambridge,Conor McCreery,Nicholas Hytner,Notre Dame,Peter Holland,Rachel Weiss,Sam Mendes,Stephen Fry,Teaching Professor Peter Holland, the highly distinguished McNeel Family Professor of Shakespeare at Notre Dame University and the former director of the Shakespeare Institute at Stratford-upon-Avon, talks about the good, the Bard, and the silly. Professor Peter Holland, the highly distinguished McNeel Family Professor of Shakespeare at Notre Dame University and the former director of the Shakespeare Institute at Stratford-upon-Avon, talks about the good, the Bard, and the silly. Featuring outrageous assumptions about Shakespeare professors; the only way to be true to Shakespeare; the real reason that Willy matters; brushes with Cambridge greatness; the foolproof test of knowing whether you're watching bad Shakespeare; a special appearance by one of the creators of the graphic novel Kill Shakespeare; and the best time to introduce your children to Shakespeare. (SPOILER ALERT! As early as possible.) (Length 22:03) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 22:03 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/05/episode-336-history-of-federation/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/05/episode-336-history-of-federation/#comments Mon, 13 May 2013 20:07:40 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8493 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/05/episode-336-history-of-federation/feed/ 0 Alexander Courage,David A. Goodman,Family Guy,Michael Giacchino,Publishing,Scott Bakula,Seth MacFarlane,Writing Greetings from the future! Historian (and TV writer) David A. Goodman has written Federation: The First 150 Years, the history of the United Federation of Planets, which was assembled as a special exhibit on Memory Alpha (and is available from Amazon. Greetings from the future! Historian (and TV writer) David A. Goodman has written Federation: The First 150 Years, the history of the United Federation of Planets, which was assembled as a special exhibit on Memory Alpha (and is available from Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk). David talks about how he created the book he wanted to own, and reveals what it's like to have worked with most of the cast of the original series, what Vulcan urination sounds like, the benefits of a rich fan tapestry, why there may or may not be a sequel to this book, and what it's like to have created the definitive (and highly satisfying) chronicle of the Romulan Wars. For those who listen all the way through (or have read this far), we say: LLAP. (Length 24:27) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 24:27 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/05/episode-335-inside-titus-vandronicus/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/05/episode-335-inside-titus-vandronicus/#comments Mon, 06 May 2013 19:04:46 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8484 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/05/episode-335-inside-titus-vandronicus/feed/ 0 Acting,Austin Tichenor,Backstage,Ben Stratton,Davey Naylor,David Loehr,Gary Fannin,Howard Sherman,Matt Rippy,Peter Holland,RSCUK,Touring Not all touring vans are equal. Climb inside 'Titus Vandronicus' (dubbed by Twitter follower @BenedictTheMad) and discover why it's probably the best one we've ever had. Recorded on April Fools Day 2013 on our first trip in it, Davey Naylor, Matt Rippy, Not all touring vans are equal. Climb inside 'Titus Vandronicus' (dubbed by Twitter follower @BenedictTheMad) and discover why it's probably the best one we've ever had. Recorded on April Fools Day 2013 on our first trip in it, Davey Naylor, Matt Rippy, Gary Fannin, and Ben Stratton rhapsodize over Titus's luxurious amenities and compare him to past touring vans we have loved and loathed. Featuring varying protocols and etiquette, traditional names for SAT-NAVs, exquisite faux-marbling, less-than-authentic Dutch names, standard shotgun rules, dozens of rejected van names, and the value of not rushing important decisions. (Length 18:27) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 18:27 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-334-american-actors-abroad/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-334-american-actors-abroad/#comments Mon, 29 Apr 2013 21:15:16 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8425 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-334-american-actors-abroad/feed/ 0 Acting,Actors,Alan Rickman,Austin Tichenor,Billy Zane,Ed Stoppard,Jeff Goldblum,John Schwab,Kenneth Branagh,Kevin Spacey,Olivia Williams,Ridley Scott A veteran of stage, film, television, radio (and us!), London-based American actor John Schwab talks about living, working, surviving, and thriving in Britain. Featuring gray areas; White House stints; the complicated nature of Hollywood financing; dis... A veteran of stage, film, television, radio (and us!), London-based American actor John Schwab talks about living, working, surviving, and thriving in Britain. Featuring gray areas; White House stints; the complicated nature of Hollywood financing; discreet voice doubling; and tales of sharing the stage with (or replacing) Claire Bloom, Kevin Spacey, Jeff Goldblum, and Billy Zane. WARNING: The names dropped herein may shatter a toe. (Length 21:24) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 21:24 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-333-my-willy-matters/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-333-my-willy-matters/#comments Tue, 23 Apr 2013 18:14:31 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8420 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-333-my-willy-matters/feed/ 1 Austin Tichenor,Ben Stratton,Davey Naylor,Dominic Conti,Dustin Sullivan,Gary Fannin,Jeff Marlow,Matt Pearson,Matt Rippy,Michael Faulkner,Michael Witmore,Mick Orfe Happy Death-And-Day-We've-All-Agreed-To-Accept-As-Your-Birthday, Willy! In honor of William Shakespeare turning the big 4-4-9, we gather a mighty quorum, fully eleven-thirds of the Reduced Shakespeare Company, to discuss the Bard's lasting influence, Happy Death-And-Day-We've-All-Agreed-To-Accept-As-Your-Birthday, Willy! In honor of William Shakespeare turning the big 4-4-9, we gather a mighty quorum, fully eleven-thirds of the Reduced Shakespeare Company, to discuss the Bard's lasting influence, his greatest interpreters, and amazing bowling prowess. Featuring shout-outs to great Shakespeareans, dares to teenagers, how you can probably speak more Shakespeare than you know, a special appearance by Folger Shakespeare Library Director Michael Witmore, and the joy of playing Shakespearean roles without all that pesky poetry. What a piece of work is this man! (Length 29:42) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 29:42 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-332-my-theatre-matters/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-332-my-theatre-matters/#comments Tue, 16 Apr 2013 04:23:47 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8411 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-332-my-theatre-matters/feed/ 1 Adrian Scarborough,Austin Tichenor,Equity,Matt Rippy,York Theatre Royal My Theatre Matters! is a UK campaign to get people talking about how important local theatres are to our communities. The goal is to raise awareness on both the local and national level about know how much we value theatre's role in our cultural and ec... My Theatre Matters! is a UK campaign to get people talking about how important local theatres are to our communities. The goal is to raise awareness on both the local and national level about know how much we value theatre's role in our cultural and economic life. This week we add our voices to the chorus and talk about why theatre (the art) and theaters (the buildings and institutions) matter to us; how you can participate; the value of providing opportunities for amateurs, professionals, and punters alike; and the amazing ability to punch above one's weight. (Length 17:44) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 17:44 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-331-shakespeare-opening-weekend/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-331-shakespeare-opening-weekend/#comments Mon, 08 Apr 2013 09:27:47 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8398 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-331-shakespeare-opening-weekend/feed/ 0 Acting,acting technique,Backstage,Ben Stratton,Gary Fannin,Matt Pearson,Matt Rippy,Shakespeare,Touring Live! from the Dress Circle of the York Theatre Royal comes this celebration of the opening weekend of our 16-week 54-city tour of The Complete Works of William Shakespeaere (abridged) [revised]. Featuring not very relaxing nights off, Live! from the Dress Circle of the York Theatre Royal comes this celebration of the opening weekend of our 16-week 54-city tour of The Complete Works of William Shakespeaere (abridged) [revised]. Featuring not very relaxing nights off, impertinent artistic analogies, slippery accents, knackered actors, cast doubling, joke recycling, nervous aplomb, and the value of knowing what not to steal and what not to steal. (Length 16:48) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 16:48 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-330-our-april-fools/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-330-our-april-fools/#comments Mon, 01 Apr 2013 21:22:21 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8391 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/04/episode-330-our-april-fools/feed/ 0 Ensemble,Rehearsals,Rehearsing,Shakespeare,Touring The four gentlemen of the 2013 cast of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [reduced] -- Gary Fannin, Matt Pearson, Matt Rippy, and Benjamin Stratton -- share their backgrounds and expertise as they prepare for their twelve-week UK tour. The four gentlemen of the 2013 cast of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [reduced] -- Gary Fannin, Matt Pearson, Matt Rippy, and Benjamin Stratton -- share their backgrounds and expertise as they prepare for their twelve-week UK tour. Featuring a surprisingly fast sense of ensemble, the joys of doubling, the perils and pitfalls of understudying, the benefits of combining veterans and newbies, finding new truths, the current status of Paul McCartney's old school, and definitive American and British accents. (Length 23:49) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 23:49 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/03/episode-329-history-of-comedy/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/03/episode-329-history-of-comedy/#comments Sun, 24 Mar 2013 11:58:40 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8382 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/03/episode-329-history-of-comedy/feed/ 0 Austin Tichenor,Backstage,Blake Robison,Comedy,Michael Haney,Physical Comedy,Playwrights,Premieres,Production,Reed Martin,Shelterhouse,Writing Playwrights Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor discuss their eighth "Complete (abridged)" collaboration The Complete History of Comedy (abridged), which will have its Reduced Shakespeare Company world premiere at the Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park in No... Playwrights Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor discuss their eighth "Complete (abridged)" collaboration The Complete History of Comedy (abridged), which will have its Reduced Shakespeare Company world premiere at the Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park in November 2013. Reed and Austin talk about what the show is going to be, how excited they are to return to Cincinnati, gratitude for extraordinary leaps of faith, the primary reason everyone thinks he can be a comedian, overrated theatrical genres, and ways in which we hope to not write a dead frog. (Length 18:28) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 18:28 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/03/episode-328-our-reduced-workshops/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/03/episode-328-our-reduced-workshops/#comments Mon, 18 Mar 2013 23:03:05 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8376 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/03/episode-328-our-reduced-workshops/feed/ 0 Audition,Austin Tichenor,Beth Kennedy,BFA,Dominic Conti,Facebook,Hong Kong,Improv,Mick Or,Reed Martin,RSCUK,Shakespeare In addition to performing our shows around the world, we teach theatre workshops in many of the various communities where we appear. This week we talk about the various workshops we offer and discuss the importance of listening, In addition to performing our shows around the world, we teach theatre workshops in many of the various communities where we appear. This week we talk about the various workshops we offer and discuss the importance of listening, how you can book a Reduced Shakespeare Company Workshop in your community, the true value of BFA degrees, and some important ways you can absolutely blow an audition. (Length 17:04) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 17:04 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/03/episode-327-social-media-marketing/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/03/episode-327-social-media-marketing/#comments Mon, 11 Mar 2013 23:16:36 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8363 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/03/episode-327-social-media-marketing/feed/ 0 Advertising,brand awareness,Delphine,demographics,Facebook,Joe Palca,Marketing,Social Media,Social Networking,Social Networks,Twitter Our old friend Scott Bushnell, designer of not only our logo but many of our show posters, is the Advertising Creative Manager for the Kennedy Center in Washington DC and shares with us the challenges of marketing 3500 individual performances a year an... Our old friend Scott Bushnell, designer of not only our logo but many of our show posters, is the Advertising Creative Manager for the Kennedy Center in Washington DC and shares with us the challenges of marketing 3500 individual performances a year and eight different subscription series. Scott's advice features some social media do's and don'ts, how to give a personal voice to a large institution that is neither hoity nor toity, and the best way to discover the funky informal Kennedy Center we know. (Length 19:50) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 19:50 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/03/episode-326-questions-and-feedback/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/03/episode-326-questions-and-feedback/#comments Mon, 04 Mar 2013 23:37:32 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8352 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/03/episode-326-questions-and-feedback/feed/ 2 Alice Ramsey,Ben Wareham,Carter Miller,Charmaine Bourton,Christian Phipps,Clara Kelly,Diane Wilshere,Frank Forkl,Janet Reimer,John Tichenor,KG,Lauren Biron We open up the RSC mailbag this week (and the website comment pages) and try to answer and respond to the many questions and abundant feedback we've received over the last couple of months. Featuring references to questions asked and answered, We open up the RSC mailbag this week (and the website comment pages) and try to answer and respond to the many questions and abundant feedback we've received over the last couple of months. Featuring references to questions asked and answered, the definition of theatrical repertory, how old-timey radio relates to the RSC, the dangers of podcasting while eating Indian food, and a tribute to the late great Warren G. Harding. (Length 22:32) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 22:32 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/02/episode-325-sentiment-and-manipulation/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/02/episode-325-sentiment-and-manipulation/#comments Mon, 25 Feb 2013 18:37:59 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8266 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/02/episode-325-sentiment-and-manipulation/feed/ 0 Amour,Argo,Art,Bob Mondello,Directing,Downton Abbey,Mondrian,NPR,Quartet,Up,Writing,Zero Dark Thirty The season three finale of Downton Abbey and last night's Academy Awards prompt this conversation with NPR film critic Bob Mondello, with whom we have long wanted to discuss S&M. We discuss whether "sentimental" is an appropriate critical term, The season three finale of Downton Abbey and last night's Academy Awards prompt this conversation with NPR film critic Bob Mondello, with whom we have long wanted to discuss S&M. We discuss whether "sentimental" is an appropriate critical term, and look at tropes that affect even jaded hard-boiled critics, things that break your heart without being sentimental, whether all art is manipulative, how sentiment played into the fortunes of this year's Best Picture, and the relationship between Pixar and Amour. (Length 19:59) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 19:59 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/02/episode-324-appreciating-stephen-king/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/02/episode-324-appreciating-stephen-king/#comments Tue, 19 Feb 2013 02:21:34 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8195 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/02/episode-324-appreciating-stephen-king/feed/ 2 Austin Tichenor,Interview,Katherine Naylor,Matt Rippy,Radio Show,Steven Weber,Writing With all due respect to Annie Wilkes, reduced King scholar and film critic Katherine Naylor and I are big fans of Stephen King, so we sat down recently to discuss our favorite books, recurring themes, underrated novels, and abandoning pretension. With all due respect to Annie Wilkes, reduced King scholar and film critic Katherine Naylor and I are big fans of Stephen King, so we sat down recently to discuss our favorite books, recurring themes, underrated novels, and abandoning pretension. Featuring chilling memories of reading The Stand, divergent opinions on The Shining, King's underrated ability to create romantic relationships, fantastic non-fiction, and a special guest appearance from Jack Torrance himself. (Length 19:47) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 19:47 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/02/episode-323-lovers-and-scholars/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/02/episode-323-lovers-and-scholars/#comments Mon, 11 Feb 2013 19:28:54 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8159 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/02/episode-323-lovers-and-scholars/feed/ 0 Ben Jonson,Comedy of Errors,Harvard,Interview,Shakespeare,Valentine's Day Benjamin & Catherine Woodring are graduate students at Harvard University, teaching Shakespeare under the auspices of Professor Stephen J. Greenblatt, author of the New York Times best-selling Will in the World. For this special Valentine's Day podcast, Benjamin & Catherine Woodring are graduate students at Harvard University, teaching Shakespeare under the auspices of Professor Stephen J. Greenblatt, author of the New York Times best-selling Will in the World. For this special Valentine's Day podcast, Ben and Katy talk about their love for Shakespeare - and each other - and offer insight into a wild Shakespearean nexus; the actual age of the so-called 'New Criticism'; anecdotal evidence that Shakespeare saves lives; a special appearance by Michael Witmore, Director of the Folger Shakespeare Library; and expert advice on how best to avoid hollow worship of the classics! (Length 19:20) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 19:20 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/02/episode-322-auditioning-in-london/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/02/episode-322-auditioning-in-london/#comments Mon, 04 Feb 2013 18:04:10 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8153 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/02/episode-322-auditioning-in-london/feed/ 0 Acting,Actors,Audition,Backstage We saw some great actors last week when we conducted auditions for the upcoming UK tour of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised]. Austin Tichenor, Matt Rippy, and Davey Naylor discuss the process by which we whittled over 1200 ... We saw some great actors last week when we conducted auditions for the upcoming UK tour of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised]. Austin Tichenor, Matt Rippy, and Davey Naylor discuss the process by which we whittled over 1200 applicants down to almost 40 auditioners to 18 callbacks. Featuring tips for actors on keeping your online resumes current (we recommend it), suggestions for the word that designates a collection of actors, and some fantastic and entertaining vocal characterizations. (Length 19:26) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 19:26 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/01/episode-321-bermuda-fun-facts/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/01/episode-321-bermuda-fun-facts/#comments Sun, 27 Jan 2013 17:22:24 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8145 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/01/episode-321-bermuda-fun-facts/feed/ 0 Authorship Question,Karen Pollard,Tempest We spent a far too-reduced number of days in Bermuda this week, performing The Complete World of Sports (abridged) for three large appreciative crowds as part of the Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts. We spent a far too-reduced number of days in Bermuda this week, performing The Complete World of Sports (abridged) for three large appreciative crowds as part of the Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts. We spent our too-reduced free time catching up on what we remembered from being here the last time, learning about Bermuda's history, and discovering what we could about the country and its people. Featuring outside perspectives, international influences, questionable insights into the Authorship Question, even more questionable accents, and the reasons why Bermuda is the perfect country for us. (Length 18:11) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 18:11 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/01/episode-320-outlandish-bermuda-sports/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/01/episode-320-outlandish-bermuda-sports/#comments Tue, 22 Jan 2013 00:34:14 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8135 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/01/episode-320-outlandish-bermuda-sports/feed/ 0 'Weird Al' Yankovic,Ariel Sands Hotel,Backstage,Red Lion Hotel,Sports,Touring We head back to the Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts this week for the first time in over a decade and we're very excited. Join us in our Yakima, WA hotel lobby as we sample the snacks and wine given us by the Capitol Theatre and discuss what it... We head back to the Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts this week for the first time in over a decade and we're very excited. Join us in our Yakima, WA hotel lobby as we sample the snacks and wine given us by the Capitol Theatre and discuss what it's like performing the Sports show again, the subtle differences between Bermuda and the Bahamas, the joy of anticipating Marks & Spencer again, some unfortunate travel karma, and some mild Ariel confusion. (Length 18:55) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 18:55 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/01/episode-319-arranging-our-flights/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/01/episode-319-arranging-our-flights/#comments Mon, 14 Jan 2013 21:45:10 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8130 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/01/episode-319-arranging-our-flights/feed/ 0 advancing,Alaska,Alli Bostedt,Backstage,expedia,FedEx,Interview,itinerary,kayak,minivan,orbitz,Touring RSC Company Manager Alli Bostedt adds another title to her growing list - Travel Agent - and describes what it's like getting us and our stuff all over the world. Featuring recommended travel websites, tricks we've learned over the years, RSC Company Manager Alli Bostedt adds another title to her growing list - Travel Agent - and describes what it's like getting us and our stuff all over the world. Featuring recommended travel websites, tricks we've learned over the years, the challenges of moving people and equipment in a post-9/11 world, and a scary moment when Life almost initiated Art. BONUS FEATURE: Minivan recommendations! (Length 21:58) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 21:58 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/01/episode-318-props-for-homeland/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/01/episode-318-props-for-homeland/#comments Mon, 07 Jan 2013 22:36:37 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8091 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2013/01/episode-318-props-for-homeland/feed/ 1 Argo,Backstage,Charlotte,Chicago Hope,Claire Danes,Damian Lewis,Homeland,Interview,Mandy Patinkin,North Carolina,props,Tech Gillian Albinski is the Prop Master for the hit TV show Homeland, and takes us behind the scenes of what it's like to set the scene and create all the stuff you see and the actors handle. Featuring what constitutes a prop, Gillian Albinski is the Prop Master for the hit TV show Homeland, and takes us behind the scenes of what it's like to set the scene and create all the stuff you see and the actors handle. Featuring what constitutes a prop, the advantages of television over film (and vice versa), eight-day miracles (every week!), they maybe-not-so-surprising advantages of living in North Carolina, a special appearance from the Sassy Gay Friend, and the value of having creepy information you don't really want to have. SPOILER ALERT: There are no spoilers. (Length 19:20) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 19:20 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-317-year-end-highlights/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-317-year-end-highlights/#comments Tue, 01 Jan 2013 00:31:50 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8027 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-317-year-end-highlights/feed/ 0 AJ Mass,Christmas,guitar,Lincoln,SF Giants,The Last DragonSlayer,The Man From Primrose Lane As the final hours of 2012 tick down, we reflect on some of the highlights we've experienced this year, both professionally and personally. Featuring new houses, new family members, new adopted countries, book, film, and television recommendations, As the final hours of 2012 tick down, we reflect on some of the highlights we've experienced this year, both professionally and personally. Featuring new houses, new family members, new adopted countries, book, film, and television recommendations, an inevitable bit about (sigh) baseball, and some deeply satisfying payoffs. (Length 22:37) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 22:37 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-316-favorite-days/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-316-favorite-days/#comments Mon, 24 Dec 2012 22:11:52 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8021 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-316-favorite-days/feed/ 0 audience participation,Backstage,bathroom renovation,beer,cancer,Eric Essix,Holiday,Improv,performance In The Ultimate Christmas Show (abridged), we take suggestions for things to replace the lords-a-leaping, maids-a-milking, and other assorted animals featured in the song "The 12 Days of Christmas", and this week we share some of the favorites we've re... In The Ultimate Christmas Show (abridged), we take suggestions for things to replace the lords-a-leaping, maids-a-milking, and other assorted animals featured in the song "The 12 Days of Christmas", and this week we share some of the favorites we've received. Featuring awkward silences, gift statistics, acceptable gifts when you come to see us perform, offers to trade, holiday music from Eric Essix, and a shout-out to the busiest woman this time of year. (Length 19:24) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 19:24 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-315-our-new-e-book/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-315-our-new-e-book/#comments Mon, 17 Dec 2012 23:33:54 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=8005 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-315-our-new-e-book/feed/ 0 author,Authors,Bible,Books,Interview,Religion,Spirituality,Writing Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor discuss their new e-book How The Bible Changed Our Lives (Mostly For The Better), their irreverent comic memoir (originally published in paperback as The Greatest Story Ever Sold by Westminster/John Knox Press) and talk ... Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor discuss their new e-book How The Bible Changed Our Lives (Mostly For The Better), their irreverent comic memoir (originally published in paperback as The Greatest Story Ever Sold by Westminster/John Knox Press) and talk about how, while writing their whimsical look at the Bible, they find their friendship tested, their beliefs challenged, their bodies slightly broken, and their souls (more or less) saved. Featuring spiritual journeys, higher callings, reverent irreverence, leg-pulling, cheek-turning, religious heritage, unsolicited testimonials, and completely unbiased and non-judgmental reviews. PLUS! For a short time only -- reduced prices! (Length 20:08) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 20:08 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-314-reduced-musical-abilities/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-314-reduced-musical-abilities/#comments Mon, 10 Dec 2012 22:10:36 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7979 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-314-reduced-musical-abilities/feed/ 0 chord progressions,Christmas,guitar,Matt Rippy,Michael Faulkner,Mick Orfe,music,music theory,Singing,Training A jam session broke out recently when we got the band back together for Ultimate Christmas Show (abridged) brush up rehearsals. Matt Rippy, Michael Faulkner, and Mick Orfe play their music and talk about their musical backgrounds and abilities. A jam session broke out recently when we got the band back together for Ultimate Christmas Show (abridged) brush up rehearsals. Matt Rippy, Michael Faulkner, and Mick Orfe play their music and talk about their musical backgrounds and abilities. Featuring original compositions, the gifts of wrong notes, examples of how musical skills can help you get acting jobs, Rippy's ditties, Faulkner's teenage experimentation, and Orfe's musical exhibitionism. (Length 22:22) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 22:22 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-313-celebrating-housecleaning/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-313-celebrating-housecleaning/#comments Tue, 04 Dec 2012 07:12:23 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7974 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/12/episode-313-celebrating-housecleaning/feed/ 0 Backstage,Blubrry,demographics,Dick Costolo,Feedburner,hosting,iTunes,Matt Rippy,Podcast,Podcasting,sponsors,Twitter We begin our 7th year of podcasting by doing a little late-fall cleaning, explaining some of the changes we've made to how our podcasts are posted, walking you through what's changed over on iTunes, pointing out some interesting bells and whistles, We begin our 7th year of podcasting by doing a little late-fall cleaning, explaining some of the changes we've made to how our podcasts are posted, walking you through what's changed over on iTunes, pointing out some interesting bells and whistles, showing off some cool new features, revealing how many of you are listening, pondering the surprising popularity of certain episodes, and puzzling over our elusive demographic. (Length 23:38) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 23:38 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/11/episode-312-autobiography-of-iago/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/11/episode-312-autobiography-of-iago/#comments Mon, 26 Nov 2012 04:43:28 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7948 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/11/episode-312-autobiography-of-iago/feed/ 0 author,Authors,Berkeley Rep,Billy Meleady,Christopher Moore,dramaturg,Iago,Interview,Martha's Vineyard,Nicole Galland,Othello,Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Novelist and former theatre dramaturg Nicole Galland has written I, Iago, a novel which tells the story of Shakespeare's famous villain and the events of the play Othello, but from Iago's point of view. Nicole talks about her tragic, comic, Novelist and former theatre dramaturg Nicole Galland has written I, Iago, a novel which tells the story of Shakespeare's famous villain and the events of the play Othello, but from Iago's point of view. Nicole talks about her tragic, comic, and crazily compelling riff on both the familiar story and Shakespeare's famous villain, and reveals the benefits of being more faithful to Shakespeare's original than many productions, the different duties of a dramaturg, the unknown hilarity of the Crusades, and the many unintended consequences of working with actors. (Length 19:52) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 19:52 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/11/episode-311-in-san-diego/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/11/episode-311-in-san-diego/#comments Mon, 19 Nov 2012 17:36:58 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7888 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/11/episode-311-in-san-diego/feed/ 0 Acting,Adam Richman,Backstage,Christmas,Dustin Sullivan,Interview,Little House Musical,Man V Food,Michael Faulkner,Mick Orfe,Millennium,music The cast of The Ultimate Christmas Show (abridged) in San Diego -- Michael Faulkner, Mick Orfe, and Dustin Sullivan -- talk about returning to San Diego Repertory Theatre and how the Christmas show differs from the RSC's other shows. The cast of The Ultimate Christmas Show (abridged) in San Diego -- Michael Faulkner, Mick Orfe, and Dustin Sullivan -- talk about returning to San Diego Repertory Theatre and how the Christmas show differs from the RSC's other shows. Featuring natural disasters, the glory of the coveted Scenie, some minor but unfortunate coastal bias, an amazing Rush likeness, a special appearance from Man V. Food's Adam Richman, and the only place these days you can see us perform The Complete Millennium Musical (abridged). (Length 21:08) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 21:08 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/11/episode-310-kings-and-queens/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/11/episode-310-kings-and-queens/#comments Mon, 12 Nov 2012 15:07:22 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7881 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/11/episode-310-kings-and-queens/feed/ 0 Davey Naylor,Dem Kings,Elizabethan,George III,History,Katherine Naylor,Magna Carta,Millennium,Radio Show,Tour,UK No, not the Kevin James sitcom, nor the reality competition featuring RuPaul: Ginger UK production manager Davey Naylor recounts the reigns of the English monarchs from the ninth century to the present (2012). No, not the Kevin James sitcom, nor the reality competition featuring RuPaul: Ginger UK production manager Davey Naylor recounts the reigns of the English monarchs from the ninth century to the present (2012). Featuring the ancient prerequisites for obtaining a knighthood, the differences between myths and legends, how the American Revolution is taught in the UK, excerpts from the Reduced Shakespeare Radio Show and The Complete Millennium Musical (abridged), and all your favorite Henrys and Georges and Ethelreds and Lizzes. (Length 26:05) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 26:05 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/11/episode-309-the-unreduced-hamlet/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/11/episode-309-the-unreduced-hamlet/#comments Mon, 05 Nov 2012 21:11:32 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7859 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/11/episode-309-the-unreduced-hamlet/feed/ 2 Acting,acting technique,Actors,Austin Tichenor,Backstage,Chicago,Hamlet,Jeff award,Joseph Jefferson Award,Michael Halberstam,New York,Scott Parkinson Scott Parkinson is one of those great stage actors you've probably never heard of, and he's playing the title role in an amazing production of Hamlet at the wonderfully intimate Writers Theatre in the Chicago suburb of Glencoe. Scott Parkinson is one of those great stage actors you've probably never heard of, and he's playing the title role in an amazing production of Hamlet at the wonderfully intimate Writers Theatre in the Chicago suburb of Glencoe. Austin Tichenor sits down with Scott (you know, one Hamlet to another) and speaks with this Jeff Award-winner (and multiple Jeff nominee) about what it's like to play the entire unabridged melancholy Dane. Featuring favorite Hamlets, the joys of intimacy, the pitfalls and pleasures of being a teenage drama nerd, the regimen required by real actors, surprising amounts of action for a supposedly passive character, and how unreduced actors deal with noisy audience members. (Length 26:30) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 26:30 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-308-thoughts-for-publicists/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-308-thoughts-for-publicists/#comments Mon, 29 Oct 2012 20:32:06 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7824 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-308-thoughts-for-publicists/feed/ 0 Austin Tichenor,Backstage,brand awareness,business,Daily Show,Facebook,Kennedy Center,Marketing,Podcast,publicity,Reed Martin,Small Business You can't really call us "publicity whores" because we don't charge for it, we give it away! (We will answer, however, to "publicity sluts".) But there's a handful of things we'd prefer to avoid and/or not do, You can't really call us "publicity whores" because we don't charge for it, we give it away! (We will answer, however, to "publicity sluts".) But there's a handful of things we'd prefer to avoid and/or not do, so this week Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor outline a series of thoughts and guidelines and publicity opportunities. Featuring  some mild cattiness, pro tips, the value of both GPS and social media, the importance of brand awareness and relative unimportance of mall appearances, and the diminishing line between publicity and marketing. (Length 24:30) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 24:30 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-307-ambassador-chris-stevens/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-307-ambassador-chris-stevens/#comments Sun, 21 Oct 2012 23:17:06 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7810 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-307-ambassador-chris-stevens/feed/ 8 1776,Ambassador Chris Stevens,Austin Tichenor,Benghazi,Cal,Cal Berkeley,Chris Stevens,Claude Bolling,Come Sail Away,Hillary Clinton,How To Succeed in Business,John McCain The death of Ambassador Chris Stevens in Benghazi on September 11, 2012 hit very close to home as our own Austin Tichenor and Chris were old friends from high school and college roommates. For this reduced audio wake, The death of Ambassador Chris Stevens in Benghazi on September 11, 2012 hit very close to home as our own Austin Tichenor and Chris were old friends from high school and college roommates. For this reduced audio wake, Austin is joined by fellow roommate Steven McDonald as they share memories and pay tribute to this extraordinary man. Featuring lessons in confidence, stories of bravery, examples of the value of a broad and wide liberal arts education, diplomatic responses to undergraduate theatre, unfortunate attempts to politicize his death, and the embodiment of humor and grace under pressure. (Length 32:46) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 32:46 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-306-returning-to-america/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-306-returning-to-america/#comments Mon, 15 Oct 2012 06:44:30 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7803 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-306-returning-to-america/feed/ 2 America,Backstage,Darin Wilson,Dustin Sullivan,Interview,Rachel Dratch,Special Election Edition,Tour,Writing The Complete History of America (abridged) premiered in 1993 and ran at the Criterion Theatre in London from 1996 to 2005, and has toured recently around the US and to Singapore and Hong Kong. For this 2012 tour of the show's "Special Election Edition", The Complete History of America (abridged) premiered in 1993 and ran at the Criterion Theatre in London from 1996 to 2005, and has toured recently around the US and to Singapore and Hong Kong. For this 2012 tour of the show's "Special Election Edition", Dustin Sullivan returns with original cast members and co-authors Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor to share their thoughts about what it's like to return to the script after a break of at least a couple of years. Featuring insight into the script's hidden structure, how one section was inspired by a Second City improv sketch by David Razowsky and Stephen Colbert, the value of not being slavish to the big laugh, and what it's like returning to an old friend. (Length 21:40) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 21:40 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-305-casting-the-candidates/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-305-casting-the-candidates/#comments Mon, 08 Oct 2012 01:32:19 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7709 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-305-casting-the-candidates/feed/ 3 Abraham Lincoln,America,Andrew Jackson,Andrew Johnson,Austin Tichenor,Calvin Coolidge,Dustin Sullivan,George Washington,James Buchanan,James K. Polk,James Madison,James Monroe Who cares whether Barack Obama or Mitt Romney would make a better president? The important question is, which one would make a better member of the Reduced Shakespeare Company? Reed Martin, Dustin Sullivan, Who cares whether Barack Obama or Mitt Romney would make a better president? The important question is, which one would make a better member of the Reduced Shakespeare Company? Reed Martin, Dustin Sullivan, and Austin Tichenor discuss the candidates (and all their presidential predecessors) in terms of how well they would succeed onstage, backstage, or in the van of a touring theatre company. Featuring concerns about the effect of false teeth on articulation, the value and liabilities of political magnetism, and a loving appreciation of Dolley Madison's cakes. (Length 29:20) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 29:20 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-304-welcome-back-dustin/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-304-welcome-back-dustin/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 21:12:20 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7688 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/10/episode-304-welcome-back-dustin/feed/ 0 Acting,America,Dustin Sullivan,Interview,Touring,Writing Dustin Sullivan, beloved veteran of previous RSC tours (Books in the US and Ireland in 2007; America in 2008), returns this fall to perform in both the Special Election Edition of The Complete History of America (abridged) and The Ultimate Christmas Sh... Dustin Sullivan, beloved veteran of previous RSC tours (Books in the US and Ireland in 2007; America in 2008), returns this fall to perform in both the Special Election Edition of The Complete History of America (abridged) and The Ultimate Christmas Show (abridged). Dustin tells us about his time on the national tour of Little House on the Prairie: The Musical, what it's like to be both an alumni of the legendary BMI Musical Theatre Workshop and BroadwayWorld.com's October 2009 Gypsy of the Month, details about the new musical he's written, and both his canny Obama impression and his (hopefully temporary) career shift. (Length 20:07) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 20:07 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/09/episode-303-the-uncollege-movement/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/09/episode-303-the-uncollege-movement/#comments Mon, 24 Sep 2012 20:58:17 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7658 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/09/episode-303-the-uncollege-movement/feed/ 0 Dale Stephens,Interview,Uncollege Movement,Writing It's September and the kids have gone back to school...well, most kids have gone back to school. Young RSC fan Dale Stephens is the founder of the UnCollege movement and the author of Hacking Your Education, It's September and the kids have gone back to school...well, most kids have gone back to school. Young RSC fan Dale Stephens is the founder of the UnCollege movement and the author of Hacking Your Education, a manifesto about owning your own choices and forging your own path. Join us in the crowded bar of the Arts Theatre as Dale talks about his book, his experience, his advocacy, his revelation of the two things a college degree is good for, and the counter-intuitive wisdom of being known as a drop-out. (Length 17:29) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 17:29 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/09/episode-302-special-election-edition/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/09/episode-302-special-election-edition/#comments Mon, 17 Sep 2012 02:32:12 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7632 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/09/episode-302-special-election-edition/feed/ 1 Cranston,Neal Conan It's an American presidential year, so we're rolling out the Special Election Edition of The Complete History of America (abridged) across the US. Hear excerpts from the show plus a LIVE performance from National Public Radio's Talk of the Nation, It's an American presidential year, so we're rolling out the Special Election Edition of The Complete History of America (abridged) across the US. Hear excerpts from the show plus a LIVE performance from National Public Radio's Talk of the Nation, and discover great history-making women, the secrets of mysterious Rhode Island, the importance of food, the Native American definition of "vegetarian", and the answer to the age-old question, "Whatever happened to the Massachusetts Miracle?" (Length 21:22) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 21:22 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/09/episode-301-arts-theatre-talkback/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/09/episode-301-arts-theatre-talkback/#comments Mon, 10 Sep 2012 19:54:32 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7624 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/09/episode-301-arts-theatre-talkback/feed/ 0 Damian Cruden During Kids Week 2012 in London, we did a post-show Q&A after our Thursday matinee at the Arts Theatre. In this lively and revealing twenty minutes, hear impeccable English accents (theirs), terrible Scottish ones (ours), strenuous work habits (pubs), During Kids Week 2012 in London, we did a post-show Q&A after our Thursday matinee at the Arts Theatre. In this lively and revealing twenty minutes, hear impeccable English accents (theirs), terrible Scottish ones (ours), strenuous work habits (pubs), and the deeply personal reasons why we decided to go into theatre in the first place (girls). (Length 21:22) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 21:22 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/09/episode-300-total-laughing-stock/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/09/episode-300-total-laughing-stock/#comments Mon, 03 Sep 2012 20:00:28 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7588 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/09/episode-300-total-laughing-stock/feed/ 2 To celebrate our 300th week of regular podcasting, we take you back to where our audio library all began: Laughing Stock Productions. Founder and producer Mike O'Brien tells us the history of his epic comedy label (audio home of acts ranging from Peter... To celebrate our 300th week of regular podcasting, we take you back to where our audio library all began: Laughing Stock Productions. Founder and producer Mike O'Brien tells us the history of his epic comedy label (audio home of acts ranging from Peter Cook & Dudley Moore to Tim Minchin), how the business of audio comedy has changed over the years, and what new comedy project he's now involved with. Featuring a special appearance from Adrian Scarborough and excerpts from The Reduced Shakespeare Radio Show. (Length 23:35) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 23:35 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/08/episode-299-reviewing-the-reviews/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/08/episode-299-reviewing-the-reviews/#comments Mon, 27 Aug 2012 19:02:34 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7582 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/08/episode-299-reviewing-the-reviews/feed/ 0 Backstage,Bob Mondello,Reviews Rule #1: It's never good to get into a pissing contest with a critic. Rule #2: Sometimes it's fun to break Rule #1. Although the American reviews of The Complete World of Sports (abridged) were ecstatic and almost uniformly positive, Rule #1: It's never good to get into a pissing contest with a critic. Rule #2: Sometimes it's fun to break Rule #1. Although the American reviews of The Complete World of Sports (abridged) were ecstatic and almost uniformly positive, the UK reviews ran the gamut. Author/Directors Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor review the reviews, separating the raves from the helpfully critical and the oddly personal from the weirdly inaccurate. (Length 20:45) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 20:45 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/08/episode-298-weirdest-audience-ever/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/08/episode-298-weirdest-audience-ever/#comments Tue, 21 Aug 2012 00:23:50 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7576 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/08/episode-298-weirdest-audience-ever/feed/ 0 Audiences mostly react to our shows in ways we understand - even the silences have an expected rhythm. But at one recent performance at the Arts Theatre in London, we encountered an audience we couldn't figure out at all. Audiences mostly react to our shows in ways we understand - even the silences have an expected rhythm. But at one recent performance at the Arts Theatre in London, we encountered an audience we couldn't figure out at all. So we vented our frustration in the dressing room and turned on the microphone. Featuring mysteries, misjudgments, mispronunciations, mischaracterizations, misadventures, misattributions, and a special appearance by Mister Tim Minchin. (Length 18:33) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 18:33 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/08/episode-297-adam-long-returns/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/08/episode-297-adam-long-returns/#comments Mon, 13 Aug 2012 09:49:06 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7571 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/08/episode-297-adam-long-returns/feed/ 2 Acting,Backstage,History,Interview Founding RSC member Adam Long returns (for the length of this podcast, anyway) to tell us what he's up to these days and share a burrito. Featuring backstage gossip from Mike the Knight and The Amazing World of Gumball, Founding RSC member Adam Long returns (for the length of this podcast, anyway) to tell us what he's up to these days and share a burrito. Featuring backstage gossip from Mike the Knight and The Amazing World of Gumball, authentic details of the Adam Long Origin Story, the risks of clown math, and the monetary benefits of studying Nuero Linguistic Programming and Martial Arts. (NOTE: This podcast was recorded on the 31st-and-one-day anniversary of the RSC's very first performance in 1981. Coincidence? You decide.) (Length 22:11) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 22:12 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/08/episode-296-daveys-thameside-walk/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/08/episode-296-daveys-thameside-walk/#comments Mon, 06 Aug 2012 23:00:37 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7561 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/08/episode-296-daveys-thameside-walk/feed/ 1 Davey Naylor,History,Katherine Naylor,London 2012,Tour,UK UK Production Manager Davey Naylor gives us on an epic tour of the Thames Embankment from Vauxhall Bridge to London Bridge. Featuring famous landmarks as Cleopatra's Needle and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, the source of the phrase "monstrous carbuncle", UK Production Manager Davey Naylor gives us on an epic tour of the Thames Embankment from Vauxhall Bridge to London Bridge. Featuring famous landmarks as Cleopatra's Needle and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, the source of the phrase "monstrous carbuncle", historical trivia, the new name for the tower which holds Big Ben, confused movies, and the answer to the question, "Who is the Golden Hinde of the Reduced Shakespeare Company?" (Length 28:10) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 28:10 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-295-star-trek-conventions/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-295-star-trek-conventions/#comments Mon, 30 Jul 2012 10:26:42 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7554 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-295-star-trek-conventions/feed/ 7 Acting,Elizabeth Dennehy,Interview,Sci-Fi,Star Trek,Wil Wheaton Elizabeth Dennehy, who played Lt. Commander Shelby on Star Trek: The Next Generation, describes what it's like attending sci-fi/fantasy cons around the world. Featuring behind-the-scenes details from the pivotal episodes "The Best of Both Worlds (Parts... Elizabeth Dennehy, who played Lt. Commander Shelby on Star Trek: The Next Generation, describes what it's like attending sci-fi/fantasy cons around the world. Featuring behind-the-scenes details from the pivotal episodes "The Best of Both Worlds (Parts 1 & 2)", convention-goer categorization, questions about Charmed one is better off not asking, impertinent observations about "The Next Phase", and a special appearance by Ensign Wesley Crusher himself. By Grabthar's Hammer! (Length 20:18) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 20:18 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-294-the-arts-theatre/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-294-the-arts-theatre/#comments Thu, 26 Jul 2012 17:04:17 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7549 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-294-the-arts-theatre/feed/ 0 Backstage LIVE! From backstage at this smallest of West End venues where theatrical milestones abound (including the English-language premiere of Waiting For Godot), we tell tales and share reminiscences about our two visits to this perfect "reduced theatre". LIVE! From backstage at this smallest of West End venues where theatrical milestones abound (including the English-language premiere of Waiting For Godot), we tell tales and share reminiscences about our two visits to this perfect "reduced theatre". Featuring changes and differences, a special appearance from Rosie & Jessica's Day of Fun, and the comforting consistency of having the audience and the actors all performing in the same room. (Length 19:08) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 19:08 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-293-booking-our-tours/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-293-booking-our-tours/#comments Sun, 15 Jul 2012 16:02:29 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7540 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-293-booking-our-tours/feed/ 0 "Why don't you ever come to Scotland?!" cry our (usually Scottish) fans. Well, this week we try to answer the question of why and how we play the places we play. Featuring help from our UK tour booker Mark Makin on the mechanics of booking, "Why don't you ever come to Scotland?!" cry our (usually Scottish) fans. Well, this week we try to answer the question of why and how we play the places we play. Featuring help from our UK tour booker Mark Makin on the mechanics of booking, the trickiness of matching a theatre's schedule with ours, the Darts system of tour routing, and what you can do to help us get to a venue near you. (SPOILER ALERT: We'd love to come to Scotland.) (Length 17:36) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 17:36 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-292-our-favorite-travelodge/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-292-our-favorite-travelodge/#comments Mon, 09 Jul 2012 12:14:54 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7536 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-292-our-favorite-travelodge/feed/ 1 Karaoke,Keel Pub,The Curry Lounge,Travelodge Traveling the length and breadth of soggy England, we've come to rely on the consistency and quality of Travelodge, where we've stayed most nights on our five week tour. Featuring questionable karaoke, how touring in the UK has changed since last we we... Traveling the length and breadth of soggy England, we've come to rely on the consistency and quality of Travelodge, where we've stayed most nights on our five week tour. Featuring questionable karaoke, how touring in the UK has changed since last we were here, a shout-out to our favorite curry restaurant, a special appearance from David White from BBC Radio Cornwall, and a lovely 4th of July greeting from our Production Manager Davey Naylor. (Length 20:14) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 20:14 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-291-our-lighting-designer/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-291-our-lighting-designer/#comments Mon, 02 Jul 2012 17:36:27 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7530 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/07/episode-291-our-lighting-designer/feed/ 2 Backstage,Interview Richard G. Jones has designed the lights for productions on Broadway, in the West End, and in arenas all over the world. Now he squanders his talents on us, designing the lights for our UK production of The Complete World of Sports (abridged). Richard G. Jones has designed the lights for productions on Broadway, in the West End, and in arenas all over the world. Now he squanders his talents on us, designing the lights for our UK production of The Complete World of Sports (abridged). Featuring the various challenges of lighting John Doyle's production of Sweeney Todd on Broadway, Strictly Come Dancing (Dancing With The Stars) in arenas, and The Railway Children with an actual 88-ton steam engine; the value of being a jack-of-all-trades in the theatre; the difference between working in the US and the UK; wisdom and gratitude from Michael Cerveris and Patti LuPone; charm from Stephen Sondheim; and how variety is both the spice and the meat of surviving in the theatre. (Length 28:36) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 28:36 http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/06/episode-290-changes-for-britain/ http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/06/episode-290-changes-for-britain/#comments Mon, 25 Jun 2012 17:38:33 +0000 austin http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/?p=7510 Continue reading →]]> http://www.reducedshakespeare.com/2012/06/episode-290-changes-for-britain/feed/ 0 Backstage,Sports,Writing At the end of our second week of playing The Complete World of Sports (abridged) in the UK, we talk about the many subtle and not-so-subtle changes we're making to Anglicize the show for a British audience. Featuring evidence that reviews can help, At the end of our second week of playing The Complete World of Sports (abridged) in the UK, we talk about the many subtle and not-so-subtle changes we're making to Anglicize the show for a British audience. Featuring evidence that reviews can help, a close encounter (and missed opportunity) with the All Saints, a special appearance from BBC broadcast legend Judi Spiers, and the desperate and pathetic lengths to which we're willing to go make audiences like us. (Length 18:35) REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY no 18:35