Living the Dream with Rory O'Malley
85 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 5 years ago - ★★★★★ - 319 ratingsRory has talks with his friends in show business about staying grounded and happy while living the dream. Part of the Broadway Podcast Network.
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Episodes
Preview of Heléne Yorke interview on Geffen Playhouse UNSCRIPTED
March 06, 2019 19:12 - 1 minuteLIVING THE DREAM is taking a hiatus for now, but you can still listen to Rory interview theater artists on the GEFFEN PLAYHOUSE UNSCRIPTED podcast! Here is a preview of his talk with Heléne Yorke. Subscribe to UNSCRIPTED so you won't miss any of these great conversations! Find it here: https://www.podcastone.com/geffen-playhouse-unscripted Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Preview of Dulé Hill interview on Geffen Playhouse UNSCRIPTED
March 06, 2019 19:05 - 2 minutesLIVING THE DREAM is taking a hiatus for now, but you can still listen to Rory interview theater artists on the GEFFEN PLAYHOUSE UNSCRIPTED podcast! Here is a preview of his talk with Dulé Hill. Subscribe to UNSCRIPTED so you won't miss any of these great conversations! Find it here: https://www.podcastone.com/geffen-playhouse-unscripted Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Preview of Megan Hilty interview on Geffen Playhouse UNSCRIPTED
February 01, 2019 15:16 - 2 minutesLIVING THE DREAM is taking a hiatus for now, but you can still listen to Rory interview theater artists on the GEFFEN PLAYHOUSE UNSCRIPTED podcast! Here is a preview of his talk with Megan Hilty. Subscribe to UNSCRIPTED so you won't miss any of these great conversations! Find it here: https://www.podcastone.com/geffen-playhouse-unscripted Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Julia Murney - Episode #82
January 22, 2019 15:49 - 1 hourJulia Murney (WICKED, WILD PARTY) is here to talk about her time as the Wicked Witch, how growing up in NYC in a family of actors gave her a very different perspective and what it means to be a woman in this business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jacqui Polk - Episode #81
January 13, 2019 19:13 - 1 hourJacqui Polk (HAIRSPRAY, SPELLING BEE) found early success in her career on Broadway but found that she wanted to expand her dream and went to business school. Jacqui talks about how she found the courage to forge a new path and try something new. Her leap into a new realm paid off. She has worked for environmental causes, a U.S. senator, is currently a marketing executive for a large entertainment streaming service and about to become a mom! Jacqui thinks that her years on Broadway gave her a...
Jennifer Simard - Episode #80
December 29, 2018 22:23 - 57 minutesJennifer Simard (MEAN GIRLS, DISASTER) has made a name for herself on Broadway as one of the funniest musical comedians in the business since her early days in the company of FORBIDDEN BROADWAY. Jen shares the overwhelming feeling of being nominated for Tony for her work in DISASTER and the joy of sharing that moment with the friends and family who supported her along the way. This episode is sponsored by Goldstar! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Oak - Episode #79
December 21, 2018 20:38 - 59 minutesOak (HAMILTON, STATION 19) is best known for originating the roles of Hercules Mulligan and James Madison in HAMILTON on Broadway. Oak talks about his unlikely path to Broadway and what it was like to be at the epicenter of the biggest hit on Broadway in a generation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Josh Lamon - Episode #78
December 12, 2018 07:45 - 1 hourJosh Lamon (THE PROM, GROUNDHOG DAY) has a very unique path to Broadway. He didn’t like school so he left college early and wound up getting his equity card in a very “creative” way. Josh is one of the funniest actors on Broadway. Onstage and off. His years of regional theater and lab work on new musicals prepared him for his current new venture as writer for his new show BLOODY BLODDY JESSICA FLETCHER. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Donna Lynne Champlin - Episode #77
December 07, 2018 21:51 - 1 hourDonna Lynne (CRAZY EX-GIRLFRIEND, HOLLYWOOD ARMS) talks with Rory about the difference between singing on Broadway and singing on TV, raising a child while maintaining an acting career, and her time working on a new Broadway show with the legendary Carol Burnett. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jared Gertner - Episode #76
November 27, 2018 07:34 - 1 hourJared Gertner (MORMON, SPELLING BEE) is an Olivier nominee for his portrayal of Elder Cunningham in the West End production of THE BOOK OF MORMON. Jared has had the dream of being on Broadway since he was three and his parents took him to CATS. His determination led him to graduate from NYU Drama School, participate in regional theater all across the country, and move to Los Angeles to pursue TV and Film after making a name for himself on Broadway. Jared has accomplished a lot in his career, ...
George Salazar - Episode #75
November 16, 2018 02:18 - 1 hourGeorge Salazar (BE MORE CHILL, GODSPELL) is one of the most grateful, lovely and charming folks to have been on living the dream. He just finished a run off Broadway in the phenomenon BE MORE CHILL which will open on Broadway in the spring. It’s a very exciting time for George who has worked hard for years to have a moment like this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Lesli Margherita - Episode #74
October 30, 2018 08:16 - 1 hourLesli Margherita (MATILDA, ZORRO) is an Olivier Award winner who took Broadway by storm in her star making performance as Mrs. Wormwood in MATILDA. She is a triple threat and that includes being seen in recent TV dramas like HOMELAND and 7 SECONDS. Lesli had a steady climb to her success in NYC which has given her a unique perspective and gratitude. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Carly Hughes - Episode #73
October 23, 2018 07:22 - 1 hourCarly Hughes (AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE, PIPPIN, CHICAGO) made her way from regional theater to understudying on Broadway to literally being the “Lead Player” in PIPPIN. Her extensive broadway credits led her to her current gig as a series regular on ABC’s AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE where she has learned a new language from working on a set. Carly has navigated her way through the unique challenges this business presents to woman of color with grace and has maintained a positive and sunny attitude throughou...
Jason Michael Snow - Episode #72
October 16, 2018 06:46 - 1 hourJason Michael Snow (THE BOOK OF MORMON, SOUTH PACIFIC) is an actor, composer, writer, and very funny human being. Jason has excelled in all of these areas because he learned early on that you have to make your own opportunities. Jason walks us through the daily routines that keep him grounded, how he uses humor to deal with rejection, and his thoughts on social media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Kirsten Wyatt - Episode #71
October 09, 2018 03:38 - 1 hourKirsten Wyatt (ANNIE, GREASE) refers to herself as “Blue Collar Broadway.” A veteran of many shows and an elected member of Actor’s Equity council, Kirsten is extremely active in the community and a positive leader. Rory and Kirsten talk about their work with #BeltTheVote and why having a foundation outside of your career is so important. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ilana Levine - Episode #70
October 05, 2018 21:00 - 1 hourIlana Levine is the host of the podcast LITTLE KNOWN FACTS and has appeared on Broadway in YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN, JAKE'S WOMEN, and THE LAST NIGHT OF BALLYHOO. Ilana and Rory talk about there mutual love of podcasting and why they do it. You can find Ilana's podcast at http://www.littleknownfactspodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Eric Anderson & Jessica Rush - Episode #69
September 29, 2018 00:13 - 1 hourEric Anderson (PRETTY WOMAN, WAITRESS, KINKY BOOTS) and Jessica Rush (JERSEY BOYS, GYPSY, SUMMER) are a hard-working Broadway couple who have to balance 8 shows a week with raising a kid. They are continually adjusting and learing the best way to pick up their child from school, make that audition, and sing at that benefit. They are incredibly talented and generous. Jessica has started an group called Broadway Baby Mommas that offers help and a place to talk for moms who are pursuing theatre....
Andy Karl - Episode #68
September 21, 2018 05:44 - 1 hourAndy Karl (ROCKY, GROUNDHOG DAY, PRETTY WOMAN) has been the leading man in a musical on Broadway in nearly every season for the last decade. He is known for his talent, dedication to the work, and great sense of humor. Andy and Rory go way back to working on HAPPY DAYS THE MUSICAL for the late great Garry Marshall, who co-wrote Andy's current hit show PRETTY WOMAN. Andy discusses the joy of getting to do what you love at a dinner theater and the agony of getting a closing notice when you are ...
Beth Crosby - Episode #67
September 12, 2018 00:40 - 1 hourBeth Crosby (Dr. Ken, Speechless, Life in Pieces) is an alum of The Groundlings, has appeared on many TV shows and in several national commercials. Beth and Rory share stories from their days waitng on tables together at a restaurant during their eary post college days in LA. Beth talks about how her dream grew from soley being about Broadway to working in comedy, the challenges and rewards of being a mom while pursuing an acting career, and her thoughts on the Geoffrey Owens discussion about...
Kevin Spirtas - Episode #66
September 04, 2018 09:57 - 1 hourKevin (DAYS OF OUR LIVES, AFTER FOREVER) has participated in every aspect of show business. From touring as a chorus boy to standing by for Hugh Jackman on Broadway. From starring in soap operas on daytime to producing his own internet series AFTER FOREVER- Kevin has maintained a diverse career on both coasts while navigating the difficult task of coming out of the closet professionally, at a time it wasn't so easy. He has an incredible story and his new series is a wonderful accomplishment. ...
Remembering Craig Zadan - Episode #65
August 29, 2018 02:04 - 1 hourLegendary producer Craig Zadan unexpectedly passed away this week, so we are replaying his recent episode in honor of his life and great career. We are lukcy to have heard so many great stories here on this podcast. He was passionate, kind and inspired us all. Craig's work will live on forever. Our condolences to his friends and family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Asmeret Ghebremichael - Episode #64
August 21, 2018 06:27 - 1 hourAsmeret (DREAMGIRLS, THE BOOK OF MORMON, LEGALLY BLONDE) is currently starring in DREAMGIRLS on the West End after performing on Broadway ensembles of numerous shows. She got her fierce work ethic and drive to succeed from her immigrant parents and her early days of dance competition in Pittsburgh. Asmeret's story is unique and shows what hard work, perseverance, and the right attitude can do. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Marc Tumminelli - Episode #63
August 14, 2018 07:15 - 1 hourMarc Tumminelli is the founder and director of www.broadwayworkshop.com, a school for high school and middle school performers who love Broadway. Marc started as an actor, but after years of working and a few really heart breaking experiences, he decided to start his own school in NYC. Marc has wonderful insights for actors who want to teach, kids who want to perform, and parents who have kids who have been bit by the theater bug! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rickey Minor - Episode #62
August 07, 2018 06:23 - 57 minutesRickey Minor is one of the most successful musical directors in the business. His work on The Tonight Show, American Idol and world tours for Whitney Houston, Christina Aguilera, and Beyonce have solidified his spot as one of the biggest names in the music industry. Rickey grew up in Los Angeles and ended up walking away from a full ride college education to pursue his dream. His rise from playing in the band for DREAMGIRLS to leading the band on American Idol is an incredible American dream ...
Rachel Bloom - Episode #61
July 31, 2018 07:58 - 1 hourRachel Bloom (CRAZY EX-GIRLFRIEND) is a Golden Globe Award winning actress for playing Rebecca Bunch on her hit TV show. She talks Rory through how she went from musical theatre lover to sketch comedian to creating and starring in her own musical TV comedy series which is just starting to film it’s fourth and final season. Rachel emphasizes that the story we play in our head is what defines us so make it a positive one. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bobby Steggert - Episode #60
July 24, 2018 08:00 - 1 hourBobby Steggert (BIG FISH, RAGTIME, YANK) tells Rory why he decided to walk away from an incredibly successful acting career and pursue a masters degree in social work. Bobby has accomplished many things in the industry including being nominated for a Tony Award, but he felt compeled to make a difference in the world more directly than just throught the stage. Listen to his thoughts on defining success, social media, and happiness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Susan Blackwell - Episode #59
July 17, 2018 06:15 - 1 hourSusan Blackwell ([title of show], SIDE BY SIDE BY SUSAN BLACKWELL) tells Rory the incredible story of how [title of show] started around a kitchen table, then went downtown and made it all the way to Broadway. All along the way, Susan maintained her "survival job" and learned how to be grateful for it. Susan talks about how her song DIE VAMPIRE, DIE came from fighting the demons in our head that tell us we aren't good enough to be artists. She has started a workshop to help other writers conq...
Mandy Gonzalez - Episode #58
July 10, 2018 08:00 - 1 hourMandy Gonzalez (IN THE HEIGHTS, HAMILTON) talks with Rory from her dressing room in the Richard Rodgers Theatre where she currently brings down the house playing "Angelica" in HAMILTON. The same dressing room she had for IN THE HEIGHTS. Mandy has an incredible story that starts with the unlikely union of her parents, leaving college at 19 to become a back up singer for Bette Midler, and performing in Broadway hits (and one big flop). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Andrew Rannells - Episode #57
July 03, 2018 06:11 - 1 hourAndrew Rannells (THE BOOK OF MORMON, GIRLS, FALSETTOS) is a two time Tony nominated actor and star of TV and film. Andrew shares his stories about rejection, jealousy and working in the Warner Brothers gift shop. Rory and Andrew talk about their shared experience of opening THE BOOK OF MORMON on Broadway and how it changed everything. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Craig Zadan - Episode #56
June 26, 2018 06:33 - 1 hourProducer Craig Zadan (CHICAGO, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR LIVE) tells Rory what his definition of being a producer is and how he excelled as one on Broadway and in TV & film. Craig talks about the successes and challenges of producing live musicals for TV and of course... producing SMASH. He weaves us through his career starting from working for Joe Papp at The Public Theater, to producing the Oscars. He has an incredible story, a lot of wisdom, and is a great guy. Learn more about your ad choice...
Kate Flannery - Episode #55
June 19, 2018 07:45 - 1 hourThe hilarious Kate Flannery (THE OFFICE) tells Rory how her early dream of playing the title role in ANNIE started it all. She grew up in Philly, the youngest in a large Irish family. Her aunt ended up buying her a plane ticket to Chicago to introduce her Second City and it changed her life. Kate became a success in Hollywood by working hard every step of the way, and even kept her waitress job during the first season of THE OFFICE... just in case. She has a great sense of humor and a tremend...
Patti Murin - Episode #54
June 12, 2018 05:55 - 1 hourPatti Murin (FROZEN, LYSISTRATA JONES) talks with Rory about what if feels like to lead a big juggernaut blockbuster show. She is incredibly open about her struggles with anxiety and depression and has changed the way the Broadway community talks about dealing with mental illness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Cheyenne Jackson - Episode #53
June 05, 2018 05:49 - 1 hourCheyenne Jackson (American Horror Story, All Shook Up) talks about his career path from rural Washington state to Broadway and then Hollywood. Cheyenne gives his takes on how to deal with rejection, body image issues and what its like to be a leading man gay actor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Christina Applegate - Episode #52
May 29, 2018 07:43 - 1 hourTony nominee (SWEET CHARITY) and TV/Film star (ANCHORMAN, BAD MOMS, MARRIED WITH CHILDREN) Christina Applegate talks with Rory about her career that started when she was three years old. She's taken on every part of this business with confidence and humor. She tells Rory her story of how she made her Broadway debut despite breaking her foot! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Leslie Odom Jr. - Episode #51
May 22, 2018 09:21 - 1 hourLeslie (Tony Award Winner for HAMILTON) and Rory talk about their college years together at Carnegie Mellon University and his book "Failing Up." Leslie chats about his mentors, his philosophy on the business and how he maintains a healthy family life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Siobhan Dillon - Episode #50
March 13, 2018 20:58 - 1 hourSiobhan talks to Rory about making her way from the London theatre scene to SUNSET BOULEVARD on Broadway opposite Glenn Close and eventually to Los Angeles. Siobhan has had a very unique experience during her career including reality tv shows, taking time off to study fashion, and a serious health scare. She has found a way to stay centered through all of it by having a meditation practice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wesley Taylor - Episode #49
February 19, 2018 23:04 - 1 hourWes Taylor (ROCK OF AGES, ADDAMS FAMILY, SMASH) talks about his early success right out of college and how it had its pros and cons. He immediately had a great role on Broadway but realized years later that the business doesn't usually operate that way. Wes and Rory have an honest conversation about being up for the same role and how they managed their disappointment with that specific project. Wes is incredible creative and shares hiss secret on writing projects for himself and how he gets t...
Taran Killam - Episode #48
December 15, 2017 01:38 - 1 hourTaran (SNL, HAMILTON, KILLING GUNTHER) and Rory talk about their shared experience of playing King George III in HAMILTON on Broadway. Taran walks us through his years in Groundlings, through his audition for SNL and his experience on that iconic show. He also explains how he and his equally successful wife, Cobie Smulders, balance work life and family. Taran talks about his latest project, the film KILLING GUNTHER, which he wrote, directed and stars in with Arnold Schwarzenegger. Learn more ...
Jimmy Pardo - Episode #47
December 07, 2017 17:57 - 1 hourJimmy is the host of the very successful podcast NEVER NOT FUNNY and his new podcast PLAYING GAMES with JIMMY PARDO. Jimmy started as a stage actor but found his calling in standup comedy and began touring the country eventually ending up at The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien. He tells Rory about his early days in the business and how juggles his comedy career and family life. Jimmy has a real love of Broadway and explains to Rory how they were almost in the movie DREAMGIRLS together. Learn ...
Nicole Parker - Episode #46
November 20, 2017 22:47 - 1 hourNicole Parker (MADtv, WICKED, FAME BECOMES ME) talks with Rory about her path to success in the improv and sketch comedy world which landed her in the cast of MADtv and set her in stone in the eyes of the industry as a comedic actress, even though her first passion for performing came from musical theater. Nicole eventually made her way to Broadway and even performed as Elphaba but she has found herself having to decide between the two worlds her entire career. She is a hilarious human being ...
Edi Patterson - Episode #45
November 01, 2017 21:04 - 1 hourEdi Patterson (VICE PRINCIPALS on HBO) talks with Rory about coming up in the comedy world through the Groundlings and how she became a master at improvisation and sketch. Edi and Rory worked together on the TV show PARTNERS with Kelsey Grammer and Martin Lawrence, and quickly became pals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Amber Iman - Episode #44
October 25, 2017 07:57 - 1 hourAmber Iman (HAMILTON, SOUL DOCTOR, SHUFFLE ALONG) talks with Rory about growing up in the Atlanta theater scene with her actress mother. Amber went to Howard University on a full academic scholarship and then went back to her hometown to get her start but after years of "playing it safe" was give an ultimatum by loved ones to break out of her comfort zone and move to the big apple. Rory and Amber talk about her ups and downs in New York City and her love of NICKELBACK. Learn more about your a...
#AskRory & Josh Gad replay - Episode #43
October 20, 2017 21:46 - 1 hourRory answers listener's questions and replays his converation with his buddy Josh Gad. Josh is currently starring in the movie MARSHALL about Thurgood Marshall and will be seen later this year in THE ORIENT EXPRESS. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jeff Greenberg - Episode #42
October 11, 2017 08:20 - 57 minutesJeff Greenberg is the Emmy Award winning casting director for MODERN FAMILY, CHEERS, FRASIER and many more groundbreaking hit TV series. He got his start in the business as a stage actor and made his way in casting through the LA theatre scene. Jeff's stories about casting Kirstie Alley in CHEERS and letting Lisa Kudrow go from FRASIER (she booked FRIENDS the next year) are priceless examples of the crazy nature of this industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Barrett Foa - Episode #41
October 04, 2017 08:45 - 1 hourBarrett Foa (NCIS:LA, Avenue Q, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee) was born and raised in NYC so his love for theater naturally led him to Broadway, but winding up on one of TV’s longest running TV shows was a little more of a surprise. Barrett explains how he moved to LA and within weeks found himself on NCIS: LA and how he has navigated the transition from Broadway to TV. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mo Brady - Episode #40
September 27, 2017 09:23 - 1 hourMo Brady (The Addams Family, Smash, The Ensemblist) talks with Rory about his move from Broadway ensemble to Video and Social Media Producer for a major charity, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids. Mo explains how he came to embrace a change in career and “hung up his tap shoes”. His podcast, The Ensemblist has given him an outlet to continue in the performing world and share stories of his fellow Broadway ensemble members. The new season of The Ensemblist starts October 1st! Learn more about...
Marilu Henner - Episode #39
September 20, 2017 08:26 - 1 hourMarilu Henner (Taxi, Evening Shade, Chicago on Broadway) talks to Rory about her amazing career and how she went from the first ever production of Grease to TV star, to Broadway star and then health & wellness book mogul. Marilu has done it all and remembers every single bit of it due to her Highly Superior Auto-Biographical Memory that gives her the ability to know what she was doing every single day of her life. She is a remarkable woman who loves her family and is full of energy and joy. ...
Joseph Leo Bwarie - Episode #38
September 06, 2017 07:49 - 58 minutesJoseph Leo Bwarie, who played Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys on Broadway and all over the country, reminisces with Rory about the old days while seated in the very theater where they met many years ago. Joe is talking over as co-Artistic Director for the Garry Marshall Theatre where both he and Rory got their start in Happy Days the Musical working for their mentor, Garry Marshall. Joe walks us through his journey to getting the role of Frankie Valli, his 9 years playing the part and his recent...
Solea Pfeiffer - Episode #37
August 30, 2017 09:24 - 1 hourMeet Hamiltour’s Eliza! The super talented Solea talks about booking this dream job just six weeks after graduating from college. Solea is an incredibly sweet and humble young woman who initially had a hard time believing it when they asked her to play Eliza, but has learned to embrace it and remember that she worked hard for it. Her boyfriend Ryan Vasquez is also a cast member on the tour and recently went on for the first time as the understudy for Hamilton. Solea describes what it feels li...
Rubén Carbajal - Episode #36
August 23, 2017 09:22 - 1 hourRubèn Carbajal (Hamiltour's John Laurens/Philip Hamilton) is ecstatic to be back in his hometown of Los Angeles performing at the Pantages where he grew up seeing plays that inspired him to get into acting including In The Heights starring Lin Manuel Miranada. His story of getting into Hamilton involves an open call, Mandy Gonzalez, and a hilarious tricked played on him by his agents. Rory and Rubén talk about their Jesuit education, handling rejection, and the moment that Rory tries to make ...