Theater Forward

Interview w/ Playwright Lauren Gunderson

We were thrilled to sit down with Lauren Gunderson, one of America's most produced playwrights and author of our upcoming world premiere of ARTEMISIA at Forward Theater Company. Get a deep dive into the process of this prolific writer, as well as insight into the creation of this exciting new production. This is a MUST LISTEN for artists and audiences.   

Fast Times at Understudy High

Finding understudies used to be the last item on a long to-do list for producers. But with ongoing safety protocols this hard-to-fill role is now front and center. As a result, more and more artists are jumping into performances at the last minute to keep productions afloat.

A candid and funny look at this brave "sport," thanks to our special guests Kailey Azure Green (they/them) and Rána Roman (she/her), who offer backstage tales from two of Wisconsin's biggest theaters.

World Premiere Wisconsin

We dive into the debut of World Premiere Wisconsin, a statewide festival celebrating new plays and musicals, March 1 - June 30. Originally conceived by our very own Jen Uphoff Gray, this event is one-of-a-kind. We go in-depth on what it took to create the festival, including the collaboration of over 50 Wisconsin theaters that have made this idea a reality. 

The State of Theater for Transgender & Non-Binary Artists

We welcome educator and scenic designer Neil Mills, and Orion Risk, a PhD student in Interdisciplinary Theater Studies. In this interview, we discuss the "tipping point" of awareness and inclusion of transgender and non-binary artists and stories, and gain insight into how American theater institutions can expand their perspectives even further. 

Emerging Directors

A deep dive with Mallory Metoxen and Jake Penner, two emerging directors that share their personal journeys and insight about developing a career as a director, as well as how to cultivate a new generation of artists. Hosted by Artistic Director Jen Uphoff Gray.

A Look Back at 2022

In our end-of-year episode, we reflect on the highlights, the lowlights, and the things we'll remember most about a very interesting season in the world of theater. 

A Closer Look: The Board of Directors

Amidst the recent fallout at Victory Gardens Theater in Chicago, we examine the role of the Board of Directors and the changing relationship they have with theater administrators and staff. 

Making Accessibility the New Normal

We are joined by Guthrie Theater Accessibility Coordinator Robyn DeCourcy and our very own Director of Audience Development Samara Safarik to talk about the ongoing journey to make the arts accessible to all, and the innovative ways theaters are leading the charge in America. 

State of the Arts (in Education)

We are joined by Khalid Y. Long, PhD (University of Georgia) and Marcella Kearns (UW-Milwaukee). These powerhouse arts educators give us a revealing look at post-pandemic arts education, and how the future crop of artists are rising to the challenge and approaching their craft. 

Most Produced Playwrights in America, 22-23

American Theatre Magazine has released its list for the first time in two years, and we break it all down. FYI the #1 most-produced title is shared by a playwright we are partnering with in spring of 2023...