Anything Goes

57 Alan Menken III

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program featuring prolific composer Alan Menken, who began his storied career in the theater but is mostly known for his work on animated films such as THE LITTLE MERMAID, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, ALADDIN and ENCHANTED. In this program, Menken discusses his experiences working on the stage shows “Real Life Funnies, “Battle of the Giants,” and “Dream on Royal Street” as well as his classic score to LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS. Some of the recordings feature Menken himself singing at the piano.

Featured songs: “Real Life Funnies,” “People Collecting Things,” “Ah Men,” “Battle of The Giants,” “Not So Near,” “Suddenly, Seymour,” “Don’t Feed the Plants.”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1982. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/Anything Goes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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56 Alan Menken II

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program featuring prolific composer Alan Menken, who began his storied career in the theater but is widely known for his work on animated films such as THE LITTLE MERMAID, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, ALLADIN and ENCHANTED. In this program, Menken discusses his experience working with Howard Ashman on the stage shows LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, and GOD BLESS YOU, MR. ROSEWATER. Some of the recordings feature Menken himself singing at the piano.

Featured songs: “Feed Me (Get It),” “With A Dollar in My Pocket,” “Dear Ophelia,” “Since You Came to This Town,” “Thank God For The Volunteer Fire Brigade.”

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55 Alan Menken I

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program featuring prolific composer Alan Menken, who began his storied career in the theater but is mostly known for his work on animated films such as THE LITTLE MERMAID, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, ALADDIN and ENCHANTED. In this program, Menken discusses his experience working with Howard Ashman on the stage shows LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, and GOD BLESS YOU, MR. ROSEWATER. Some of the recordings feature Menken himself singing at the piano.

Featured songs: “Prologue (Little Shop of Horrors),” “Pink Fish,” “Skid Row (Downtown),” “A Little Dental Music,” “Somewhere That’s Green.”

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51 Stephen Schwartz III

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program featuring Broadway composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz, known for such celebrated shows as GODSPELL and PIPPIN. Schwartz discusses developing songs for THE BAKER’S WIFE and WORKING, along with his creative endeavors outside of Broadway.

Featured songs: “Chanson,” “Gifts of Love,” and “Meadowlark” from THE BAKER’S WIFE, a pop song entitled “Cry Without a Reason, “Father and Sons” from WORKING, and “All Good Gifts” from GODSPELL.

Originally produced and broadcast in 1980. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/Anything Goes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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50 Stephen Schwartz II

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program featuring Broadway composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz, known for such celebrated shows as GODSPELL and PIPPIN. Schwartz discusses the creative writing process behind “Love Song” from PIPPIN, as well as the show’s overall popularity and critical reception, and developing songs for a potential film adaptation of THE MAGIC SHOW.

Featured songs: “The Good Times Ladies Rag” from PIPPIN, “Love Song” from PIPPIN, “West End Avenue” from THE MAGIC SHOW, “Where Did the Magic Go” from the proposed film adaptation of THE MAGIC SHOW, and “Millwork” from WORKING.

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49 Stephen Schwartz I

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program featuring Broadway composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz, known for such celebrated shows as GODSPELL and PIPPIN. In this edition, Schwartz discusses his early days on Long Island, writing songs for BUTTERFLIES ARE FREE, GODSPELL, and shares a song from PIPPIN-PIPPIN, the college version of PIPPIN.

Featured songs: “Magic To-Do” from PIPPIN, “Begging My Lady’s Pardon” from the college production, PIPPIN-PIPPIN, “Butterflies Are Free” from BUTTERFLIES ARE FREE, “Prepare Ye the Way of the World” from GODSPELL, “Day by Day” from GODSPELL, and “Simple Joys” from PIPPIN.

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48 Burton Lane IV

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a four-part program featuring Broadway composer Burton Lane, known for such celebrated shows as FINIAN’S RAINBOW and ON A CLEAR DAY YOU CAN SEE FOREVER, along with songs for over thirty films including ROYAL WEDDING and BABES IN ARMS. Lane recounts his early songwriting efforts in Hollywood with Frank Loesser and Harold Adamson, Broadway collaborations with E.Y. “Yip” Harburg and Alan Jay Lerner, writing songs for Fred Astaire, and discovering a young Judy Garland.

Featured songs: “Give A Girl A Break,” “It Happens Every Time,” “On A Clear Day You Can See Forever,” “Come Back To Me,” “Hurry! It’s Lovely Up Here!” “One More Walk Around The Garden,” and “How Are Things In Glocca Morra?”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1981. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/Anything Goes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Associate producer Jeff Lunden. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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47 Burton Lane III

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0000

The third of a four-part program featuring Broadway composer Burton Lane, known for such celebrated shows as FINIAN’S RAINBOW and ON A CLEAR DAY YOU CAN SEE FOREVER, along with songs for over thirty films including ROYAL WEDDING and BABES IN ARMS. Lane recounts his early songwriting efforts in Hollywood with Frank Loesser and Harold Adamson, Broadway collaborations with E.Y. “Yip” Harburg and Alan Jay Lerner, writing songs for Fred Astaire, and discovering a young Judy Garland.

Featured songs: “Overture from ON A CLEAR DAY YOU CAN SEE FOREVER,” “Look To The Rainbow,” “When The Idle Poor Become The Idle Rich,” “Old Devil Moon,” “Where Have I Seen Your Face Before?” “Too Late Now,” “You’re All The World To Me,” and “How Could You Believe Me When I Said I Loved You When You Know I’ve Been A Liar All My Life?”

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46 Burton Lane II

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0000

The second of a four-part program featuring Broadway composer Burton Lane, known for such celebrated shows as FINIAN’S RAINBOW and ON A CLEAR DAY YOU CAN SEE FOREVER, along with songs for over thirty films including ROYAL WEDDING and BABES IN ARMS. Lane recounts his early songwriting efforts in Hollywood with Frank Loesser and Harold Adamson, Broadway collaborations with E.Y. “Yip” Harburg and Alan Jay Lerner, writing songs for Fred Astaire, and discovering a young Judy Garland.

Featured songs: “Says My Heart,” “How About You?” “Anything Can Happen In New York,” “Chin Up, Cheerio, Carry On,” “Poor You,” “Don’t Let It Get You Down,” “The World Is In My Arms,” and “How Are Things In Glocca Morra?”

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45 Burton Lane I

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a four-part program featuring Broadway composer Burton Lane, known for such celebrated shows as FINIAN’S RAINBOW and ON A CLEAR DAY YOU CAN SEE FOREVER, along with songs for over thirty films including ROYAL WEDDING and BABES IN ARMS. Lane recounts his early songwriting efforts in Hollywood with Frank Loesser and Harold Adamson, Broadway collaborations with E.Y. “Yip” Harburg and Alan Jay Lerner, writing songs for Fred Astaire, and discovering a young Judy Garland.

Featured songs: “Overture from FINIAN’S RAINBOW,” “Something Sort Of Grandish,” “Out In The Open Air,” “Forget All Your Books,” “Everything I Have Is Yours,” “How’dya Like To Love Me,” “The Lady’s In Love With You,” “I Hear Music,” and “Dancing On A Dime.”

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44 Hans Spialek II

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a two-part program featuring legendary Broadway orchestrator Hans Spialek, who orchestrated many of the most famous shows of the 20’s, 30’s and 40’s, including, THE NEW YORKERS, ON YOUR TOES and PAL JOEY, Spialek discusses his experiences and collaborations with such notable composers as George Gershwin, Richard Rodgers, and Cole Porter.

Featured songs: “Quiet Night,” “It’s Got To Be Love,” “Heroes In The Fall,” “You Took Advantage Of Me,” “At Long Last Love,” “I Happen To Like New York,” and “Slaughter On Tenth Avenue.”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1983. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/Anything Goes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Associate producer Jeff Lunden. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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43 Hans Spialek I

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a two-part program featuring legendary Broadway orchestrator Hans Spialek, who orchestrated many of the most famous shows of the 20’s, 30’s and 40’s, including, THE NEW YORKERS, ON YOUR TOES and PAL JOEY, Spialek discusses his experiences and collaborations with such notable composers as George Gershwin, Richard Rodgers, and Cole Porter.

Featured songs: “On Your Toes,” “Two A Day For Keith,” “My Dream Girl,” “I’ve Got A Rainbow,” “In Honeysuckle Time,” “There’s A Small Hotel,” and “Glad To Be Unhappy.”

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42 Maury Yeston III

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program featuring Tony-winning composer-lyricist, Maury Yeston who won Tony’s for both his Broadway musicals NINE and TITANIC. In this 30-minute segment, Yeston discusses several of the pop songs he has written along with detailing the creative process behind the score for NINE.

Featured songs: “Danglin’,” “A Song for John,” “What Can You Get A Wookie For Christmas,” “New Words,” “Unusual Way,” and “Folies Bergeres.”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1982. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/Anything Goes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Associate producer Jeff Lunden. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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41 Maury Yeston II

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program featuring Tony-winning composer-lyricist, Maury Yeston who won Tony’s for both his Broadway musicals NINE and TITANIC. Yeston talks about his score for the adaptation of Federico Fellini’s film, “8 1/2.” He also discusses working with director Tommy Tune, French chanteuse, Liliane Montevecchi, and the “Maury Tabernacle Choir.” Recalling the Broadway production of NINE, he explains writing music for the large, predominantly female cast.

Featured songs: “A Call From The Vatican,” “Folies Bergéres,” “My Husband Makes Movies,” “The Germans At The Spa,” and “The Bells of St. Sebastian.”

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40 Maury Yeston I

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program featuring Tony-winning composer-lyricist, Maury Yeston who won Tony’s for both his musicals NINE and TITANIC on Broadway. Yeston talks about early days and his songs for the adaptation of Federico Fellini’s film, “8 1/2.” He also discusses his incidental score and song for the original production of CLOUD NINE Off-Broadway.

Featured songs: “Overture Delle Donne,” “Nine,” “Cloud Nine – both original ballad” and revised Rock Version, “Cloud Nine – Gospel Version,” “African Music Cue,” “Guido’s Song,” and “Getting Tall.”

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37 E.Y. Harburg III

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program featuring Broadway lyricist and librettist, E.Y. “Yip” Harburg, the writer behind such iconic works as FINIAN’S RAINBOW, JAMAICA, and the film musical THE WIZARD OF OZ. Known as the “Master of Whimsy” and “Broadway’s Social Conscience,” Harburg describes his lyric writing process and the way he tailors songs to particular performers. He even sings some of his own works, including a cut song from THE WIZARD OF OZ.

Featured songs: “The World Is Your Balloon,” “Leave The Atom Alone,” “Nostalgia Ain’t What It Used To Be,” “Napoleon,” “The Happiest Girl In The World,” “Let’s See What Happens,” “It’s Only A Paper Moon,” and “That Great ‘Come-And-Get-It’ Day.”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1980. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/Anything Goes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Associate producer Jeff Lunden. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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36 E.Y. Harburg II

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program featuring Broadway lyricist and librettist, E.Y. “Yip” Harburg, the writer behind such iconic works as FINIAN’S RAINBOW, JAMAICA, and the film musical THE WIZARD OF OZ. Known as the “Master of Whimsy” and “Broadway’s Social Conscience,” Harburg describes his lyric writing process and the way he tailors songs to particular performers. He even sings some of his own works, including a cut song from THE WIZARD OF OZ.

Featured songs: “If I Only Had The Nerve,” “Somewhere Over The Rainbow,” “If I Were King Of The Forest,” “Jitterbug,” “The World Is In My Arms,” “The Eagle And Me,” “How Are Things In Glocca Morra?” and “When I’m Not Near The Girl I Love.”

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35 E.Y. Harburg I

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program featuring Broadway lyricist and librettist, E.Y. “Yip” Harburg, the writer behind such iconic works as FINIAN’S RAINBOW, JAMAICA, and the film musical THE WIZARD OF OZ. Known as the “Master of Whimsy” and “Broadway’s Social Conscience,” Harburg describes his lyric writing process and the way he tailors songs to particular performers. He even sings some of his own works, including a cut song from THE WIZARD OF OZ.

Featured songs: “Something Sort Of Grandish,” “Brother, Can You Spare A Dime,” “Satan’s Lil Lamb,” “I Like The Likes Of You,” “You’re A Builder Upper,” “If I Only Had A Brain,” and “If I Only Had A Heart.”

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34 Craig Carnelia III

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program featuring Broadway composer-lyricist Craig Carnelia, known for IS THERE LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?, and his contributions to WORKING under Stephen Schwartz. Carnelia takes us through his songwriting process, including how shows evolve and songs are added even after the out-of-town tryout. He also performs several of his own compositions at the piano.

Featured songs: “Diary Of A Homecoming Queen,” “Fran and Janie,” “I’m Glad You Didn’t Know Me,” “The Mason,” and “The Kid Inside.”

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33 Craig Carnelia II

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program featuring Broadway composer-lyricist Craig Carnelia, known for his original score for IS THERE LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?, and his contributions to WORKING under Stephen Schwartz. Carnelia takes us through his songwriting process, including how his work evolves and songs are added even after the out-of-town tryout. He also performs several of his own compositions at the piano.

Featured songs: “Joe,” “Just A Housewife,” “Nobody Goes Out Anymore,” “Something To Point To,” and “Second Thoughts.”

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32 Craig Carnelia I

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program featuring composer-lyricist Craig Carnelia, known for his score to IS THERE LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?, and his contributions to the innovative Broadway show, WORKING. Carnelia takes us through his earliest theatrical experiences, his songwriting process, including how shows evolve and songs are added even after the out-of-town tryout. He also performs several of his own compositions at the piano.

Featured songs: “The Kid Inside,” “The Things I Learned In High School,” “Privacy,” “I Met A Man Today,” and “Two Birds.”

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31 Charles Strouse II

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a two-part program featuring Broadway composer, Charles Strouse, known for BYE BYE BIRDIE, GOLDEN BOY, ANNIE, APPLAUSE and THE NIGHT THEY RAIDED MINSKY’S. Strouse discusses his life and career, including his collaborations with lyricist Lee Adams, writer Clifford Odets, director William Friedkin, as well as stars like Ray Bolger, Sammy Davis, Jr. and Linda Lavin. Together with Lee Adams, Strouse performs some of his own songs live at the piano, recorded at the 92nd Street Y.

Featured songs: “Once Upon A Time,” “What A Country,” “I Want To Be With You,” “Don’t Forget 127th Street,” “Revenge,” “You’ve Got Possibilities,” “The Night They Raided Minsky’s,” and “Take Ten Terrific Girls.”

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30 Charles Strouse I

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0000

The first of a two-part program featuring Broadway composer, Charles Strouse, known for BYE BYE BIRDIE, GOLDEN BOY, ANNIE, and APPLAUSE. Strouse discusses his life and career, including his collaborations with lyricist Lee Adams, writer Michael Stewart, and director Gower Champion, as well as stars like Dick Van Dyke and Paul Lynde. Together with Adams and Martin Charnin, Strouse performs some of his own songs live at the piano, recorded at the 92nd Street Y.

Featured songs: “Ditto,” “Take Ten Terrific Girls,” “The Arts,” “I Lost The Rhythm,” “Overture to BYE BYE BIRDIE,” “The Telephone Hour, “Rosie,” “Put On A Happy Face,” and “Hymn For A Sunday Evening.”

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29 Cy Coleman III

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0000

The final installment of a three-part program featuring Broadway legend Cy Coleman, composer of SWEET CHARITY, ON THE TWENTIETH CENTURY, BARNUM and countless pop hits. Coleman discusses his life and career, including his collaborations with writers Betty Comden, Adolph Green and Barbara Fried as well as directors like Hal Prince and Joe Layton, among others. He even performs some of his own songs live at the piano, recorded exclusively for this program.

Featured songs: “On the Twentieth Century,” “The Way I See It,” “Come Follow The Band,” “On the Day You Leave Me,” and “Hey There Good Times.”

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28 Cy Coleman II

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program featuring Broadway legend Cy Coleman, composer of SWEET CHARITY, SEESAW, I LOVE MY WIFE and countless pop hits. Coleman discusses his life and career, including his collaborations with wordsmiths Dorothy Fields, Michael Stewart and Neil Simon as well as directors Joe Layton and Michael Bennett, among others. He even performs some of his own songs live at the piano recorded exclusively for this program.

Featured songs: “I’m A Brass Band,” “My Personal Property,” “Pink Taffeta Sample Size 10,” “Where Am I Going,” “Nobody Does It Like Me,” and “I Love My Wife.”

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27 Cy Coleman I

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program featuring Broadway legend Cy Coleman, composer of SWEET CHARITY, LITTLE ME, WILDCAT and countless pop hits. Coleman discusses his life and career, including his collaborations with wordsmiths Carolyn Leigh, Michael Stewart and Neil Simon as well as directors Bob Fosse and Michael Bennett, among others. He even performs some of his own songs live at the piano recorded exclusively for this program.

Featured songs: “If My Friends Could See Me Now,” “Witchcraft,” “A Moment of Madness,” “Hey Look Me Over,” “I’ve Got Your Number,” and “Real Live Girl.”

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20 Jones and Schmidt

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Lyricist and bookwriter Tom Jones and composer Harvey Schmidt discuss their musical theatre collaborations, including their work on the long-running classic THE FANTASTICKS. Jones and Schmidt recount their early days and their collaborations on other shows such as 110 IN THE SHADE, I DO! I DO! and CELEBRATION. They also sing some of their own songs from THE FANTASTICKS.

Featured songs: “THE FANTASTICKS Overture,” “I Can See It,” “Opening from 110 IN THE SHADE,” “Another Hot Day,” “A Man and a Woman,” “Wonderful Music,” “I Do! I Do!” “My Cup Runneth Over,” “Celebration,” “Never Say No,” “They Were You,” the rare “Come Along With Me,” and “Try To Remember.”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1986. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/Anything Goes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Sound mixing by David Rapkin. Associate producer Jeff Lunden. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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19 Charles Strouse

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Charles Strouse, legendary composer of ANNIE, APPLAUSE, GOLDEN BOY, and BYE BYE BIRDIE, recounts his illustrious career. He recalls his work with lyricist Lee Adams and iconic stars like Dick Van Dyke, Mel Brooks, Lauren Bacall, Ray Bolger, and Sammy Davis Jr. Strouse also discusses lesser-known works like IT’S A BIRD, IT’S A PLANE, IT’S SUPERMAN, the Off-Broadway revue MAYOR, and his lyrics for NIGHTINGALE. Featured songs: “Put On A Happy Face,” “Those Were The Days,” “Hymn for A Sunday Evening (Ed Sullivan),” “Applause,” “Tomorrow,” “A Lot of Living To Do,” “Telephone Hour,” “What A Country,” “Once Upon A Time,” “I Wanna Be With You,” “You’ve Got Possibilities,” “Welcome to the Theatre,” “The Overture from ANNIE,” “Hard-Knock Life,” “NYC,” “I’m the Mayor,” and “The Emperor Is A Man.”

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54 Jones and Schmidt III

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program featuring legendary writing partners Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt, known for such amazing shows as THE FANTASTICKS, I DO, I DO, and 110 IN THE SHADE. Jones and Schmidt discuss the success of “My Cup Runneth Over,” developing THE FANTASTICKS, and the show’s subsequent long-running success.

Featured songs: “My Cup Runneth Over” from I DO, I DO, and from THE FANTASTICKS: the writers performing “Come on Along” the original opening number and “Try to Remember” the show’s ultimate opening song, “Plant a Radish,” featuring Bert Lahr and Stanley Holloway from the TV version and “Soon It’s Gonna Rain,” “Try to Remember,” and the reprise of “Try to Remember.”

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53 Jones and Schmidt II

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program featuring legendary writing partners, lyricist and book writer, Tom Jones and composer, Harvey Schmidt, known for such amazing shows as THE FANTASTICKS, I DO, I DO, and 110 IN THE SHADE. Jones and Schmidt discuss the reception for 110 IN THE SHADE, developing the titular songs and writing “Thousands of Flowers” for I DO, I DO.

Featured numbers: a cut song performed by the writers, “Too Many People Alone,” and from the original cast recording; “A Man and a Woman,” and “Wonderful Music” from 110 IN THE SHADE, three title songs and “Thousands of Flowers” for I DO, I DO.

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52 Jones and Schmidt I

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0000

In celebration of the 20th anniversary of THE FANTASTICKS, the first of a three-part program featuring legendary writing partners, lyricist and librettist, Tom Jones, and composer, Harvey Schmidt, known for such amazing shows as I DO, I DO, and 110 IN THE SHADE. In this episode, Jones and Schmidt recount their early days in Texas, working for Julius Monk, and writing the music for 110 IN THE SHADE.

Featured songs: “Much More” from THE FANTASTICKS, “The Holy Man and the New Yorker” and “Mr. Off-Broadway” from DEMI DOZEN, and “Gonna Be Another Hot Day” from 110 IN THE SHADE.

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39 Micki Grant II

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a two-part program featuring Broadway performer and composer-lyricist Micki Grant, known for her score to DON’T BOTHER ME, I CAN’T COPE, YOUR ARMS TOO SHORT TO BOX WITH GOD, and her amazing contributions to WORKING. Grant discusses her writing process, her experiences as a performer, and her collaborations with Vinnette Carroll and Stephen Schwartz.

Featured songs: “It’s Too Late Judas,” “It’s Lonely,” “Consider,” “Workin’ For The Man,” “Never Jam Today,” “Lovin’ Al,” “Cleanin’ Women,” “If I Could’ve Been,” “Unguentine Commercial,” “Roll Jordan,” and “Who’s Gonna Teach The Children.”

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38 Micki Grant I

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0000

The first of a two-part program featuring Broadway performer and composer-lyricist Micki Grant, known for her scores to DON’T BOTHER ME, I CAN’T COPE, YOUR ARMS TOO SHORT TO BOX WITH GOD, and her amazing contributions to WORKING. Grant discusses her early days, writing process, experiences as a performer, and collaborations with Vinnette Carroll and Stephen Schwartz.

Featured songs: “I Gotta Keep Movin’,” “Harlem Streets,” “Lookin’ Over From Your Side,” “Don’t Bother Me, I Can’t Cope,” and “Questions.”

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24 Dorothy Fields

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Dorothy Fields, daughter of comedy star, Lew Fields, lyricist and librettist of such stage classics as A TREE GROWS IN BROOKLYN, SWEET CHARITY and ANNIE GET YOUR GUN, along with numerous memorable films such as the Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers SWING TIME and ROBERTA, discusses her life and career. She recounts growing up in a theatrical household, breaking through in the Broadway of the 1920’s, and her collaborations with many legendary composers, including Jimmy McHugh, Jerome Kern, Fritz Kreisler, Oscar Levant, Harry Warren, Harold Arlen, Burton Lane, Arthur Schwartz, and Cy Coleman.

Featured songs: “On The Sunny Side Of The Street,” “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love,” “A Fine Romance,” “I’m In The Mood For Love,” “Make The Man Love Me,” “If My Friends Could See Me Now,” “Diga Diga Doo,” “Collegiana,” “It’s All Yours,” “There Must Be Something Better Than Love,” “He Had Refinement,” and “Big Spender.”

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23 E.Y. "Yip" Harburg

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0000

E.Y. “Yip” Harburg, renowned lyricist and book writer for Broadway and film, the writer behind such iconic works as FINIAN’S RAINBOW, JAMAICA, and the film musical, THE WIZARD OF OZ, recounts his illustrious career. Known as the “Master of Whimsy” and “Broadway’s Social Conscience,” Harburg who gave us “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime” among hundreds of other well-known songs, describes his lyric writing process, the way he tailors songs to particular performers, and even sings some of his own works, including a cut song from THE WIZARD OF OZ.

Featured songs: “Napoleon,” “The Springtime Cometh,” “Evelina,” “Never Trust A Virgin,” “Sunday in Cicero Falls,” “Down With Love,” “Something Sort of Grandish,” “How Are Things In Glocca Morra,” “Jamaica,” “When I’m Not Near The Girl I Love,” “I Like The Likes Of You,” “You’re A Builder Upper,” “Somewhere Over The Rainbow,” “If I Only Had A Brain,” “If I Were King Of The Forest,” “The Jitterbug,” “Lydia The Tattooed Lady,” and “It’s Only A Paper Moon.”

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22 Thomas Z. Shepard

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Thomas Z. Shepard, legendary record producer whose countless cast albums include the Houston Grand Opera production of PORGY AND BESS, 1776, DAMES AT SEA, SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE, SWEENEY TODD, COMPANY, and much more, discusses his career. Shepard describes his typical approach to recording a Broadway cast album, his many collaborations with composer/lyricist, Stephen Sondheim, and his joy in getting to produce the recording of the Houston Grand Opera production of PORGY AND BESS and the first major revival of SHOW BOAT.

Featured songs: “Overture from THE KING AND I,” “Why Do I Love You?” “Unexpected Song,” “I Don’t Want To Know,” “Don’t Get Around Too Much,” “I Let A Song Go Out Of My Heart,” “I’m On My Way,” “Hello, Young Lovers,” and the “1776 Finale.”

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21 The Art of Orchestration

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0000

A look at The Art of Orchestration, featuring four of Broadway’s greatest: Robert Russell Bennett (Show Boat, Oklahoma), Hans Spialek (Anything Goes, On Your Toes), Jonathan Tunick (Company, Pacific Overtures), and Michael Starobin (Falsettos, Sunday in the Park with George). The four artists describe their different techniques and discuss their collaborations with writers and performers to bring out the best in a score for a show. Featured songs: “Overture to CAROUSEL,” “Four Jews In A Room Bitching,” “March of the Falsettos,” “Overture to THE KING AND I,” “A Terrific Band and A Real Nice Crowd,” “The Twenty-Fifth Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” “There’s A Small Hotel,” “Overture to NINE,” “I Happen To Like New York,” and “I Never Wanted To Love You.”

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18 Marc Blitzstein

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Marc Blitzstein, composer and lyricist noted for THE CRADLE WILL ROCK, THE AIRBORNE SYMPHONY, JUNO, and REGINA, discusses his life and work. He recalls the political controversy around THE CRADLE WILL ROCK, the challenges of bringing it to the stage with director Orson Welles and producer, John Houseman, and his translation/adaptation of Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill’s The THREEPENNY OPERA. Additional commentary by Dr. Eric Gordon, author of “Marc the Music, The Life and Work of Marc Blitzstein.”

Featured songs: “Finale from The Cradle Will Rock,” “Nickel Under The Foot,” “Moll’s Song,” “Ballad of Hurry Up,” “Ballad of the Bombardier,” “Mack the Knife,” “One Kind Word,” “Make A Quiet Day (Rain Quartet),” “The Best Thing of All,” and the rarely sung “Zipperfly” introduced and performed by Leonard Bernstein.

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16 Jule Styne

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Excerpts from an interview with Jule Styne, famed composer of FUNNY GIRL, BELLS ARE RINGING, GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES, PETER PAN and Broadway classic GYPSY. Styne discusses his life and career and performs one of the first songs he ever wrote. The interview took place in 1979 on the occasion of the release of Styne’s biography simply entitled, Jule. The legendary composer recalls his early days in London as a Harry Lauder imitator, and growing up in Chicago, playing in jazz bands with Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller and Jack Teagarden, meeting Al Capone, his Hollywood career with Frank Loesser and Sammy Cahn, evenings in Los Angeles with Frank Sinatra and Jerome Kern, and of course, his Broadway shows with Busby Berkeley, Jerome Robbins, George Abbott, Comden & Green, Bob Merrill, Arthur Laurents and Stephen Sondheim.

Featured songs performed by Styne at the piano: “The Guy With The Polka-Dotted Tie,” and “Never Never Land.“

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15 Burton Lane

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Burton Lane, composer of such celebrated Broadway shows as FINIAN’S RAINBOW and ON A CLEAR DAY YOU CAN SEE FOREVER, along with songs for over thirty films including ROYAL WEDDING and BABES IN ARMS, discusses his career. He recounts his early songwriting efforts in Hollywood with Frank Loesser and Harold Adamson, Broadway collaborations with E.Y. “Yip” Harburg and Alan Jay Lerner, writing songs for Fred Astaire, and discovering a young Judy Garland when she was performing as part of The Gumm Sisters.

Featured songs: “Overture from FINIAN’S RAINBOW,” “Everything I Have Is Yours,” “How D’ya Like to Love Me?” “I Hear Music,” “The Lady’s In Love With You,” “How About You?” “Don’t Let It Get You Down,” “The World Is In My Arms,” “Old Devil Moon,” “Look to the Rainbow,” “When the Idle Poor Become the Idle Rich,” “How Could You Believe Me When I Said I Love You When You Know I’ve Been A Liar All My Life,” “Too Late Now,” “On A Clear Day (You Can See Forever,” “Come Back To Me,” and “Where Have I Seen Your Face Before.”

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14 Richard Maltby, Jr.

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Richard Maltby, Jr., director and lyricist of such shows as STARTING HERE, STARTING NOW, BABY, and the multi-award-winning Fats Waller tribute AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’, discusses his career from his earliest beginnings. He reflects on his work with composer David Shire, having their songs recorded by Barbra Streisand, and the challenges of adapting Fats Waller’s music for the theater.

Featured songs: “We Start Today,” “Autumn,” “Starting Here, Starting Now,” “Just Across the River,” “I Don’t Remember Christmas,” “Handful of Keys,” “This Joint is Jumpin’,” “What Could Be Better?” and “The Story Goes On.”

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13 Sheldon Harnick

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Sheldon Harnick, acclaimed writer of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, FIORELLO!, SHE LOVES ME, THE ROTHSCHILDS, and more, shares highlights from his oevre. He speaks about his career beginnings after leaving the Army, the advice he got from his idol, E.Y. “Yip” Harburg, and how he almost didn’t get the job writing for FIORELLO! Harnick talks about Jerome Robbins, finding the overall theme of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, and writing specifically for a star: Zero Mostel. Harnick also sings several of his own songs.

Featured songs: “Politics and Poker,” “Little Old New York,” “What Makes Me Love Him,” “Garbage,” “No Song More Pleasing,” “The Ballad Of The Shape Of Things,” “The Boston Beguine,” “Unfair,” “Till Tomorrow,” “Little Tin Box,” “She Loves Me,” “Ice Cream,” “Sunrise, Sunset,” “Do You Love Me,” “If I Were A Rich Man,” and “In My Own Lifetime.”

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12 Jim Wann

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Jim Wann, composer, lyricist, and performer of PUMP BOYS AND DINETTES talks about the Country and American Roots-influenced scores he brought to the stage. He discusses his early work Off-Broadway, including DIAMOND STUDS and HOT GROG, and explains the origins of both the Pump Boys and the Dinettes, and how they eventually made their way to Broadway. A marvelous guitarist and singer in his own right, Wann talks about how Country music is a natural translation to the stage due to its roots in storytelling through song.

Featured songs: “Highway 57,” “Cakewalk Into Kansas City,” “Sleepy Time Down South,” “Bound Away,” “Pump Boys,” “Fisherman’s Prayer,” “The Night Dolly Parton Was Almost Mine,” “Romance Of The Rented Room,” and “Closing Time.”

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11 Maury Yeston

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Maury Yeston, composer-lyricist of the Tony-winning musical NINE, talks about his score for the adaptation of Federico Fellini’s film, “8 1/2.” Yeston also discusses his incidental score and song for the original production of “Cloud Nine” Off- Broadway as well as some of the pop songs he has written. Recalling the Broadway production of Nine, he explains writing music for the large, predominantly female cast. The “Maury Tabernacle Choir” featuring Yeston on all the parts performs “The Germans at the Spa.”

Featured songs: “Overture from NINE,” “Nine,” “Cloud Nine Rock Version,” “Guido’s Song,” “Folies Bergère,” “The Bells of St. Sebastian,” “Danglin’,” and “Unusual Way.”

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10 Kander and Ebb II

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Part two of our conversation with John Kander and Fred Ebb, songwriters for such Broadway shows as WOMAN OF THE YEAR, 70, GIRLS, 70, THE RINK, THE HAPPY TIME, and ZORBA. They talk about their writing process and share several anecdotes about working with luminaries like Hal Prince, George Abbott, Liza Minnelli, Robert Goulet and more. Kander and Ebb share their love of writing together and going back and forth with Bob Fosse to create a perfect, climactic number for Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera to perform in CHICAGO.

Featured songs: “All That Jazz,” “I Don’t Remember You,” “Life Is,” “The Butterfly,” “Old Folks,” “Chicago Overture,” “Nowadays,” “Mister Cellophane,” “The Grass Is Always Greener,” “The Rink,” “Colored Lights,” and “Yes.”

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09 Kander and Ebb I

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000

John Kander and Fred Ebb, the writing team behind such shows as CHICAGO, CABARET, FLORA THE RED MENACE, are interviewed about their over twenty-year collaboration. They discuss how they first met, the early stages of their partnership, writing special material and how much they enjoy the time they spend writing together. They sing several of their own compositions together and share their experiences working with Hal Prince, George Abbott, Chita Rivera, Liza Minelli, Barbra Streisand, Bob Fosse, Gwen Verdon, and other stars of the stage and screen. Featured songs: “Cabaret,” “Perfect Strangers,” “Ring Them Bells,” “My Coloring Book,” “Sing Happy,” “A Quiet Thing,” “Wilkommen,” “So What?,” “If You Could See Her,” “Maybe This Time,” and “Theme From New York, New York.”

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08 Gretchen Cryer & Carol Hall

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Gretchen Cryer, writer of I’M GETTING MY ACT TOGETHER AND TAKING IT ON THE ROAD, and Carol Hall, songwriter of THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS, speak about their careers on the musical theater stage. Cryer details her inspirations and choices for I’M GETTING MY ACT TOGETHER… and sings several songs from the show. She also discusses her collaboration with composer Nancy Ford on the award-winning, THE LAST SWEET DAYS OF ISAAC. Hall, who performed in I’M GETTING MY ACT TOGETHER…, elaborates on her own work as a composer and lyricist. She speaks about writing for women, gender roles in the theater, and the songs she contributed to FREE TO BE YOU AND ME and TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN.

Featured songs: “Natural High,” “My Most Important Days Go By,” “Love You Came To Me,” “Put In A Package And Sold,” “Happy Birthday,” “Old Friend,” “Ain’t Love Easy,” “It’s All Right To Cry,” “The Aggie Song,” “Doatsy May,” “Who Will Dance With The Blind Dancing Bear,” “Jenny Rebecca,” and “Miracles.”

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07 Joseph Stein

Mon, 26 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000

The legendary book writer of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF and THE BAKER’S WIFE, Joseph Stein, shares his writing process and his insights into what contributes to a good book of a musical. Together with Elisa Loti and Jeff Keller, Stein reads scenes from FIDDLER ON THE ROOF and ZORBA, discusses the challenging task of adapting existing work into musical form, and explains the importance of establishing the main character on the Broadway stage. He also relates his experiences crafting the librettos for PLAIN AND FANCY, MR. WONDERFUL, JUNO, and TAKE ME ALONG.

Featured songs: “Plain We Live,” “This Is All Very New To Me,” “Mr. Wonderful,” “Without You, I’m Nothing,” “Daarlin’ Man,” “Take Me Along,” “Tradition,” “Do You Love Me?” “Sunrise, Sunset,” and “The First Time.”

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06 Craig Carnelia

Mon, 19 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Composer-lyricist Craig Carnelia talks IS THERE LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL, his contributions to WORKING under Stephen Schwartz, and an un-produced show titled, THE NEWCOMERS. Carnelia takes us through his songwriting process, including how shows evolve and songs are added even after the premiere. A talented performer in his own right, Carnelia performs several of his own songs, some of which have never been heard before, including a duet with Maureen Silliman, who was in the original cast of IS THERE LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?

Featured songs: “The Kid Inside,” “Just A Housewife,” “Joe,” “Something To Point To,” “Two Birds,” “Fran And Janie,” “I’m Glad You Didn’t Know Me,” and “The Mason.”

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05 Comden and Green II

Mon, 12 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Betty Comden and Adolph Green walk us through BELLS ARE RINGING, SUBWAYS ARE FOR SLEEPING, FADE OUT – FADE IN, HALLELUJAH, BABY!, ON THE TWENTIETH CENTURY, and A DOLL’S LIFE. They describe their experiences working with composers Cy Coleman and Jule Styne and star performers like Carol Burnett, Judy Holliday, Leslie Uggams, John Cullum and Madeline Kahn. The conclusion of a two-part retrospective on their legendary careers.

Featured songs: “Bells Are Ringing,” “Just in Time,” “The Party’s Over,” “Subways are for Sleeping,” “You Mustn’t be Discouraged,” “My Own Morning,” “Saddle up the Horses,” “Life is like a Train,” and “Learn to be Lonely.”

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04 Comden and Green I

Mon, 05 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Betty Comden and Adolph Green, famed musical theatre writing team discuss their careers. Authors of arguably the best film musical ever, SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN, and countless Broadway musicals including PETER PAN, TWO ON THE AISLE, and WONDERFUL TOWN recall how their career began with THE REVUERS singing satirical songs at the Village Vanguard, and their notable collaborations with legendary composers Jule Styne, Morton Gould and Leonard Bernstein. The lyricist, book writers offer an inside look at the process behind some of their biggest hits and perform some of their own songs from BILLION DOLLAR BABY and ON THE TOWN. They also recall working with Broadway stars like Bert Lahr, Lena Horne, Dolores Gray, Judy Holliday and working with venerable director George Abbott. Part one of a two-part retrospective on their storied career.

Featured songs: “The Reader’s Digest,” “New York, New York,” “Some Other Time,” “Broadway Blossom,” “If You Hadn’t But You Did,” “Christopher Street,” “Ohio,” “Captain Hook’s Waltz,” and “Never Neverland.”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1986. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/AnythingGoes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Sound mixing by David Rapkin. Associate producer Jeff Lunden. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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03 Stephen Schwartz

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Twenty years before he wrote WICKED, Stephen Schwartz talks about GODSPELL, PIPPIN and other early shows. The composer-lyricist explains how he got his start on Broadway with the title song for BUTTERFLIES ARE FREE, and even sits down at the piano to perform some of his most personal songs. Hear about Schwartz’s process as he composed the scores to THE MAGIC SHOW, THE BAKER’S WIFE, and the musical he conceived based on Studs Terkel’s book, WORKING.

Featured songs: “Magic To Do,” “Butterflies Are Free,” “Day By Day,” “All Good Gifts,” “Corner Of The Sky,” “Simple Joys,” “West End Avenue,” “Chanson,” “Gifts Of Love,” “I Hear America Singing,” and “Fathers And Sons.”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1986. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/AnythingGoes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Sound mixing by David Rapkin. Associate producer Jeff Lunden. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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107 Arthur Schwartz Tribute 3

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program paying tribute to renowned composer Arthur Schwartz. Schwartz is perhaps best known for his collaborations with lyricist Howard Dietz, whom he worked with on such famous musicals as THE BAND WAGON, REVENGE WITH MUSIC, and AT HOME ABROAD. Schwartz also collaborated with Dorothy Fields on BY THE BEAUTIFUL SEA and A TREE GROWS IN BROOKLYN. The legendary composer, who died less than a week before this tribute originally aired, is celebrated with numerous recordings from his many revues and Broadway shows.

Featured songs: “Dancing in the Dark,” “Happy Habit,” “Triplets,” “I Guess I’ll Have to Change My Plan,” “It’s All Yours,” “High and Low,” “Smokin’ Reefers,” “Got a Bran’ New Suit,” and “By Myself.”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1984. Associate Producer, Jeff Lunden. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/Anything Goes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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106 Arthur Schwartz Tribute 2

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program paying tribute to renowned composer Arthur Schwartz. Schwartz is perhaps best known for his collaborations with lyricist Howard Dietz, whom he worked with on such famous musicals as THE BAND WAGON, REVENGE WITH MUSIC, and AT HOME ABROAD. Schwartz also collaborated with Dorothy Fields on BY THE BEAUTIFUL SEA and A TREE GROWS IN BROOKLYN. The legendary composer, who died less than a week before this tribute originally aired, is celebrated with numerous recordings from his many revues and Broadway shows.

Featured songs: “That’s Entertainment,” “Something You’ve Never Seen Before,” “Triplets,” “I See Your Face Before Me,” “This Is It,” “He Had Refinement,” “Make the Man Love Me,” “I Love Luisa,” and “Magic Moment.”

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105 Arthur Schwartz Tribute 1

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program paying tribute to renowned composer Arthur Schwartz. Schwartz is perhaps best known for his collaborations with lyricist Howard Dietz, whom he worked with on such famous musicals as THE BAND WAGON, REVENGE WITH MUSIC, and AT HOME ABROAD. Schwartz also collaborated with Dorothy Fields on BY THE BEAUTIFUL SEA and A TREE GROWS IN BROOKLYN. The legendary composer, who died less than a week before this tribute originally aired, is celebrated with numerous recordings from his many revues and Broadway shows.

Featured songs: “New Sun in the Sky,” “A Shine on Your Shoes,” “When You Love Only One,” “Revenge with Music Medley,” “Rhode Island is Famous for You,” “Growing Pains,” “You and the Night and the Music,” and “Love is a Dancing Thing.”

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104 The Fantasticks Un-Original Cast Album 2

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000

The second of a two-part program celebrating the 25th anniversary of musical theatre classic, The Fantasticks, which went on to become the longest running musical in history. In 1984, associate producer Jeff Lunden and Paul Lazarus gathered a group of talented performers who had appeared at different times in the New York Production and together with musical director/pianist Jeff Saver, harpist, Winifred Starks and the creators, Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt, recorded what they called “The Fantasticks Un-Original Cast Album”.

Featured songs: “Happy Ending,” “This Plum is Too Ripe,” “I Can See It,” “Plant a Radish,” “They Were You,” “Metaphor (Reprise),” and “Try to Remember (Reprise).”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1984. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/Anything Goes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Associate producer Jeff Lunden. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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103 The Fantasticks Un-Original Cast Album 1

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000

The first of a two-part program celebrating the 25th anniversary of musical theatre classic, The Fantasticks, which went on to become the longest running musical in history. In 1984, associate producer Jeff Lunden and Paul Lazarus gathered a group of talented performers who had appeared at different times in the New York Production and together with musical director/pianist Jeff Saver, harpist, Winifred Starks and the creators, Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt, recorded what they called “The Fantasticks Un-Original Cast Album”.

Featured songs: “Overture,” “Try to Remember,” “Much More,” “Metaphor,” “Never Say No,” and “Soon It’s Gonna Rain.”

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102 Lehman Engel Tribute 3

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program paying tribute to famed conductor, composer, author, and teacher Lehman Engel. Engel is best known for having conducted over 150 musicals and shows, six of which earned him the Tony Award for Best Conductor and Musical Director. He is widely credited for changing the landscape of musical theater literature through the many books he wrote on the subject and founding the BMI musical theatre workshop. Engel’s career is celebrated through the playing of various interview recordings and musical numbers he participated in during his lifetime.

Featured songs: “The Shoe Bird,” “A Perfectly Beautiful Song,” “Guido’s Song,” “Somewhere That’s Green,” “At the Ballet,” and “Wonderful Town Overture.”

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101 Lehman Engel Tribute 2

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program paying tribute to famed conductor, composer, author, and teacher Lehman Engel. Engel is best known for having conducted over 150 musicals and shows, six of which earned him the Tony Award for Best Conductor and Musical Director. He is widely credited for changing the landscape of musical theater literature through the many books he wrote on the subject and founding the BMI musical theatre workshop. Engel’s career is celebrated through the playing of various interview recordings and musical numbers he participated in during his lifetime.

Featured songs: “I Get Embarrassed,” “Miss Marmelstein,” “We Belong to You,” “There’s a Boat Dat’s Leavin’ Soon to New York,” “Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered,” “Where is the Tribe for Me?,” and “Sister Awake.”

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100 Lehman Engel Tribute 1

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program paying tribute to famed conductor, composer, author, and teacher Lehman Engel. Engel is best known for having conducted over 150 musicals and shows, six of which earned him the Tony Award for Best Conductor and Musical Director. He is widely credited for changing the landscape of musical theater literature through the many books he wrote on the subject and founding the BMI musical theatre workshop. Engel’s career is celebrated through the playing of various interview recordings and musical numbers he participated in during his lifetime.

Featured songs: “Porgy & Bess Overture,” “Call Me Mister,” “South America, Take it Away,” “To This We’ve Come,” “The Nightmare Song,” and “To My Wife.”

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99 Tony Awards Survey 3

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program surveying twenty years of the Antoinette Perry Awards for Excellence on Broadway, more commonly referred to as the Tonys. In this program, Paul Lazarus and associate producer, Jeff Lunden build up anticipation for the 1984 Awards by playing and discussing music from the previous twenty Best Musical Tony winners, starting with 1964.

Featured songs: “It’s the Hard-Knock Life,” “Spreading Rhythm Around,” “Kiss Me!,” “Ladies and Their Sensitivities,” “Oh, What a Circus,” “You’re Getting to Be a Habit With Me,” “Spa Music,” “Not Since Chaplin,” “Overture” to Cats, “Dance If It Makes You Happy,” “Baby, Baby, Baby” and “Move On.”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1984. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/Anything Goes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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98 Tony Awards Survey 2

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program surveying twenty years of the Antoinette Perry Awards for Excellence on Broadway, more commonly referred to as the Tonys. In this program, Paul Lazarus and associate producer, Jeff Lunden build up anticipation for the 1984 Awards by playing and discussing music from the previous twenty Best Musical Tony winners, starting with 1964.

Featured songs: “The Egg,” “Welcome to the Theater,” “Another Hundred People,” “Two Gentlemen of Verona,” “Everyday a Little Death,” “Measure the Valleys,” “Ease on Down the Road,” and “At the Ballet.”

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97 Tony Awards Survey 1

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program surveying twenty years of the Antoinette Perry Awards for Excellence on Broadway, more commonly referred to as the Tonys. In this program, Paul Lazarus and associate producer, Jeff Lunden build up anticipation for the 1984 Awards by playing and discussing music from the previous twenty Best Musical Tony winners, starting with 1964.

Featured songs: “Hello, Dolly,” “The Best of Times,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker,” “Dulcinea”, “Why Should I Wake Up?” and “Hallelujah, Baby.”

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96 Howard Dietz Tribute 3

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Guest hosted by Jeff Lunden; this is the conclusion of a three-part program paying tribute to acclaimed lyricist Howard Dietz. Dietz is perhaps best known for his collaborations with composer Arthur Schwartz. He penned the lyrics to numerous hit songs like “Dancing in the Dark,” “By Myself,” and “That’s Entertainment.” In this program, Lunden celebrates Dietz’s impressive oeuvre by playing songs from shows like AT HOME ABROAD, INSIDE USA, and THE GAY LIFE.

Featured songs: “That’s Not Cricket,” “Paree,” “Got a Bran’ New Suit,” “By Myself,” “Triplets,” “Come, O Come,” “Rhode Island is Famous For You,” “Magic Moment,” and “Dancing in the Dark.”

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95 Howard Dietz Tribute 2

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Guest hosted by Jeff Lunden; this is the second of a three-part program paying tribute to acclaimed lyricist Howard Dietz. Dietz is perhaps best known for his collaborations with composer Arthur Schwartz. Dietz penned the lyrics to numerous hit songs like “Dancing in the Dark,” “By Myself,” and “That’s Entertainment.” In this program, Lunden celebrates Dietz’s impressive oeuvre by playing songs from shows like THE BAND WAGON, FLYING COLORS, and REVENGE WITH MUSIC.

Featured songs: “Sweet Music,” “High and Low,” “Hoops,” “I Love Louisa,” “New Sun in the Sky,” “Alone Together,” and “You and the Night and the Music.”

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94 Howard Dietz Tribute 1

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Guest hosted by Jeff Lunden; this is the first of a three-part program paying tribute to acclaimed lyricist Howard Dietz. Dietz is perhaps best known for his collaborations with composer Arthur Schwartz. Dietz penned the lyrics to numerous hit songs like “Dancing in the Dark,” “By Myself,” and “That’s Entertainment.” In this program, Lunden celebrates Dietz’s impressive oeuvre by playing songs from shows like THE BAND WAGON, THE LITTLE SHOW, and THREE’S A CROWD.

Featured songs: “That’s Entertainment,” “Moanin’ Low,” “I’ve Made a Habit of You,” “I Guess I’ll Have to Change My Plan,” “Lucky Seven,” and “Something to Remember You By.”

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93 Hoagy Carmichael Salute 3

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program celebrating the career of famed songwriter and singer, Hoagy Carmichael. Carmichael is best known for having composed some of the most popular American songs of all time, including “Star Dust,” “Skylark,” “Georgia on my Mind” and “Heart and Soul”. He collaborated with many celebrated lyricists including Johnny Mercer. In this series, noted jazz historian, Richard Sudhalter provides insightful commentary and shares many wonderful Carmichael recordings from his personal collection.

Featured songs: “Little Old Lady,” “I Walk with Music,” “Ohh, What You Said,” “Hong Kong Blues,” “Baltimore Oriole,” and “Skylark.”

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92 Hoagy Carmichael Salute 2

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program celebrating the career of famed songwriter and singer, Hoagy Carmichael. Carmichael is best known for having composed some of the most popular American songs of all time, including “Star Dust,” “Skylark,” “Georgia on my Mind” and “Heart and Soul”. He collaborated with many celebrated lyricists including Johnny Mercer. In this series, noted jazz historian, Richard Sudhalter provides insightful commentary and shares many wonderful Carmichael recordings from his personal collection.

Featured songs: “Washboard Blues,” “Snowball,” “Thanksgiving,” “Ballad in Blue,” “Small Fry,” “Even’n Tide,” and “Billy-A-Dick.”

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91 Hoagy Carmichael Salute 1

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 17:07:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program celebrating the career of famed songwriter and singer, Hoagy Carmichael. Carmichael is best known for having composed some of the most popular American songs of all time, including “Star Dust,” “Skylark,” “Georgia on my Mind” and “Heart and Soul”. He collaborated with many celebrated lyricists including Johnny Mercer. In this series, noted jazz historian, Richard Sudhalter provides insightful commentary and shares many wonderful Carmichael recordings from his personal collection.

Featured songs: “April in my Heart,” “Riverboat Shuffle,” “What Kind of Man is You?,” and “Moon Country.”

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02 Ethel Merman

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Broadway’s greatest belter and star of GYPSY, ANNIE GET YOUR GUN, and CALL ME MADAM is honored with highlights from her 50-year career. From GIRL CRAZY to HELLO, DOLLY!, Merman dazzled audiences with her performances and powerful, brassy voice. Listen as she recalls working with Cole Porter, Bert Lahr, and Irving Berlin to create the roles that would go down in history. Ira Gershwin, Bob Hope and Stephen Sondheim talk about working with the Queen of Musical Comedy.

Featured songs: “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” “I Got Rhythm,” “You’re The Top,” “I Get A Kick Out Of You,” “It’s De-Lovely,” “A Lady Needs A Change,” “Friendship,” “I Got The Sun In The Morning,” “They Say It’s Wonderful,” “Everything’s Coming Up Roses,” “Rose’s Turn,” and “World Take Me Back.”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1986. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/AnythingGoes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Sound mixing by David Rapkin. Associate producer Jeff Lunden. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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89 Alfred Drake 70th Birthday Tribute 2

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a two-part program paying tribute to legendary leading man Alfred Drake on, what would have been at the time, his 70th birthday. Drake is best known for starring in the original Broadway productions of KISS ME, KATE, KISMET, and OKLAHOMA! This birthday celebration surveys Drake’s Tony-Award winning Broadway career and features performances from GIGI, KEAN and SING OUT, SWEET LAND.

Featured songs: “And This is My Beloved,” “Where is the Life That Late I Led?” “Service for Service,” “I Remember It Well,” “Wandering,” “I’m Glad I’m Not Young Anymore,” and “Where Thine That Special Face.”

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88 Alfred Drake 70th Birthday Tribute 1

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a two-part program paying tribute to legendary leading man Alfred Drake on, what would have been at the time, his 70th birthday. Drake is best known for starring in the original Broadway productions of KISS ME, KATE, KISMET, for which Drake won the Tony, and OKLAHOMA! This birthday celebration surveys Drake’s Tony-Award winning Broadway career and features recordings from BABES IN ARMS, KEAN, and SING OUT, SWEET LAND.

Featured songs: “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning,” “Fate,” “Wunderbar,” “The Surrey With the Fringe on Top,” “Babes in Arms,” “As I Was Going Along,” “People Will Say We’re in Love,” and “Pore Jud is Daid”.

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87 Lorenz Hart 87th Birthday Tribute 3

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program paying tribute to renowned lyricist Lorenz “Larry” Hart on what would have been his 87th birthday. Hart is perhaps best known for his collaborations with songwriting partner Richard Rodgers, who he worked with on 26 Broadway musicals including PAL JOEY and JUMBO. In this program, listeners called in to request their favorite pieces from Hart’s career, including renditions of some of his most well-known songs by Dorothy Loudon, Barbara Cook, and Connie Boswell.

Featured songs: “Where or When,” “At the Roxy Music Hall,” “My Funny Valentine,” “It’s Got to Be Love,” “Wait Till You See Him,” “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World,” “A Ship Without a Sail,” “This Funny World,” “He and She,” “Morning is Midnight,” and “Blue Moon”.

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86 Lorenz Hart 87th Birthday Tribute 2

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program paying tribute to renowned lyricist Lorenz “Larry” Hart on what would have been his 87th birthday. Hart is perhaps best known for his collaborations with composer Richard Rodgers, who he worked with on 26 Broadway musicals including PAL JOEY and PEGGY-ANN. In this program, listeners called in to request their favorite pieces from Hart’s career, including works from the Broadway classics THE BOYS FROM SYRACUSE and ON YOUR TOES, as well as from the 1948 musical film WORDS AND MUSIC, which is based on Rodgers’ and Hart’s career together.

Featured songs: “He Was Too Good To Me,” “On Your Toes,” “This Can’t Be Love,” “To Keep My Love Alive,” “Sing For Your Supper,” “Nobody’s Heart,” and “Johnny One Note”.

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85 Lorenz Hart 87th Birthday Tribute 1

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program paying tribute to renowned lyricist Lorenz “Larry” Hart on what would have been his 87th birthday. Hart is perhaps best known for his collaborations with composer Richard Rodgers, who he worked with on 26 Broadway musicals including Pal Joey and On Your Toes. In this edition, listeners called in to request their favorite songs from Hart’s career, including works from the Broadway classics THE GARRICK GAIETIES, SPRING IS HERE and THE LADY AND HER MUSIC, as well as from the 1948 musical film WORDS AND MUSIC, which is based on Rodgers’ and Hart’s career.

Featured songs: “Manhattan,” “Thou Swell,” “The Lady is a Tramp,” “Hallelujah, I’m a Bum Again,” “Why Can’t I?” “Mountain Greenery,” “I Didn’t Know What Time It Was,” and “I Wish I Were in Love Again”.

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84 Frank Loesser 2

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000

The second of a two-part program featuring legendary theatre creator Frank Loesser, best known for writing three extraordinary Broadway musicals: GUYS AND DOLLS, THE MOST HAPPY FELLA, and HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING. In this program, the Tony Award winner and Pulitzer Prize recipient discusses the making of the Damon Runyan inspired show, GUYS AND DOLLS. Other highlights include a song from his little-known work, GREENWILLOW, as well as the writer performing several of his own songs.

Featured songs: “Abbodanza,” “Sposalizio,” “The King’s New Clothes,” “My Time of Day,” “If I Were a Bell,” “Adelaide’s Lament”, “Never Will I Marry,” “Been a Long Day,” “Rosemary,” “My Heart is So Full of You,” and “Inchworm”.

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83 Frank Loesser 1

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a two-part program featuring legendary theatre creator Frank Loesser, best known for writing three extraordinary Broadway musicals: GUYS AND DOLLS, THE MOST HAPPY FELLA, and HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING. His first show, WHERE’S CHARLEY? is featured. Loesser was both a Tony Award winner and Pulitzer Prize recipient. In this episode, the songwriter performs several of his own songs.

Featured songs: “Guys and Dolls,” “The Ugly Duckling,” “Joey, Joey, Joey,” “I Wish I Didn’t Love You,” “Where’s Charley?”, “Once in Love with Amy,” “Make a Miracle,” “Say It,” and “They’re Either Too Young or Too Old.”

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82 Hal Prince III

Mon, 06 May 2024 07:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program paying tribute to legendary Broadway theatre director and producer Harold “Hal” Prince, known for among many other shows, WEST SIDE STORY, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, and SWEENEY TODD. Celebrating Prince’s 55th birthday, this episode features music from his iconic shows, including BAKER STREET, FLORA THE RED MENACE, IT’S A BIRD… IT’S A PLANE… IT’S SUPERMAN, CABARET, ZORBA, and A DOLL'S LIFE.

Featured songs: “I SHALL MISS YOU,” “A QUIET THING,” “DOING GOOD,” “TOMORROW BELONGS TO ME,” “LIFE IS WHAT YOU DO WHILE YOU’RE WAITING TO DIE,” and “THE BALLAD OF SWEENEY TODD.”

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81 Hal Prince II

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program paying tribute to legendary Broadway director and producer Harold “Hal” Prince, known for among many other shows, WEST SIDE STORY, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, and SWEENEY TODD. Celebrating Prince’s 55th birthday, this episode features music from his iconic shows, including FIORELLO!, TENDERLOIN, A FAMILY AFFAIR, and SHE LOVES ME.

Featured songs: “SOMETHING’S COMING,” “LITTLE TIN BOX,” “LITTLE OLD NEW YORK,” “THERE’S A ROOM IN MY HOUSE,” “A TRIP TO THE LIBRARY,” and “FAR FROM THE HOME I LOVE.”

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80 Hal Prince I

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This is the first of a three-part program paying tribute to legendary Broadway director and producer Harold “Hal” Prince, known for among many other shows, WEST SIDE STORY, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, and SWEENEY TODD. Celebrating Prince’s 55th birthday, this episode features music from his iconic shows, including WONDERFUL TOWN, A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM, EVITA, THE PAJAMA GAME, DAMN YANKEES, and NEW GIRL IN TOWN.

Featured songs: “CHRISTOPHER STREET,” “PRETTY LITTLE PICTURE,” “BUENOS AIRES,” “RACING WITH THE CLOCK,” “WHATEVER LOLA WANTS,” and “SUNSHINE GIRL.”

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79 Ethel Merman III

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program paying tribute to the extraordinary Ethel Merman, known for starring in Broadway shows like CALL ME MADAM, ANNIE GET YOUR GUN, and GYPSY. This episode includes an archival interview with Stephen Sondheim and a rare recording of Merman rehearsing an early draft of “HAVE AN EGGROLL, MR GOLDSTONE.” It highlights music from such shows as HELLO, DOLLY, HAPPY HUNTING and several, rare, live performances.

Featured songs: “HAVE AN EGGROLL, MR GOLDSTONE,” “LITTLE LAMB,” “MR. GOLDSTONE, I LOVE YOU,” “ROSE’S TURN,” “WORLD, TAKE ME BACK,” “THERE’S NO BUSINESS LIKE SHOW BUSINESS,” “OLD ENOUGH TO KNOW BETTER,” “JUST A MOMENT AGO,” and “THAT’S THE KIND OF DAME I AM.”

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78 Ethel Merman II

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program paying tribute to the extraordinary Ethel Merman, known for starring in Broadway shows like CALL ME MADAM, ANNIE GET YOUR GUN, and GYPSY. This episode includes archival material with Merman discussing her collaborations with icons like Jimmy Durante and Irving Berlin. It highlights music from such shows as STARS IN YOUR EYES, DU BARRY WAS A LADY, PANAMA HATTIE, SOMETHING FOR THE BOYS, and HAPPY HUNTING.

Featured songs: “IT’S ALL YOURS,” “A LADY NEEDS A CHANGE,” “FRIENDSHIP,” “I’VE STILL GOT MY HEALTH,” “SOMETHING FOR THE BOYS,” “HEY, GOOD LOOKIN’,” “I GOT THE SUN IN THE MORNING,” “I GOT LOST IN HIS ARMS,” “I WONDER WHY,” “HAPPY HUNTING,” and “GEE, BUT IT’S GOOD TO BE HERE.”

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77 Ethel Merman I

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This is the first of a three-part program paying tribute to the extraordinary Ethel Merman, known for starring in Broadway shows like CALL ME MADAM, ANNIE GET YOUR GUN, and GYPSY. This episode includes archival material with Merman discussing her collaborations with musical theatre icons like The Gershwins, Cole Porter, and William Gaxton. It highlights music from such shows as GIRL CRAZY, TAKE A CHANCE, ANYTHING GOES, and RED HOT AND BLUE.

Featured songs: “Medley of songs performed by Ethel Merman,” “I GOT RHYTHM,” “LIFE IS JUST A BOWL OF CHERRIES,” “EADIE WAS A LADY,” “YOU’RE THE TOP,” “BLOW, GABRIEL, BLOW,” “RED HOT AND BLUE,” and “DOWN IN THE DEPTHS.”

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76 Stanley Silverman III

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part series featuring extraordinary composer Stanley Silverman, known for his cutting-edge music/theatre collaborations with director Richard Foreman. In this program, Silverman discusses working with Foreman and features music from their shows, DR. SELAVY’S MAGIC THEATRE and HOTEL FOR CRIMINALS. Additionally, there is a bonus song, featuring noted singer, Sting, from the album IN CELEBRATION: THE PIANO TRIOS OF STANLEY SILVERMAN.

Featured songs: “DOESN’T IT BUG YOU?” “COME AND PLAY,” “DON’T GO NEAR MY DAUGHTER,” “OH IRMA,” “FEAR NO MORE THE HEAT O’ THE SUN,” and a reprise of “SWINGING AT THE STOCK EXCHANGE.”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1980. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/Anything Goes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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75 Stanley Silverman II

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part series featuring extraordinary composer Stanley Silverman, known for his cutting-edge music/theatre collaborations with director Richard Foreman. Silverman discusses his early career and creative process with Foreman. This program features music from such shows as ELEPHANT STEPS and DR. SELAVY’S MAGIC THEATRE.

Featured songs: “PHOTOGRAPH SONG,” “STOP SEEING REINHARDT,” “WATCH ME PUT MY RIGHT FOOT,” “WE SIT IN THE WINDOW,” “JINGLE,” “FIRST DAY’S TREATMENT,” “THE MORE YOU GET,” “MONEY IN THE BANK,” “IF YOU’RE PROPOSING” (SWINGING AT THE STOCK EXCHANGE), and “LIFE ON THE INSIDE.”

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74 Stanley Silverman I

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part series featuring extraordinary composer Stanley Silverman, known for his cutting-edge music/theatre collaborations with director Richard Foreman. Silverman discusses his early career and why he became a composer. This program features music from such shows as ELEPHANT STEPS, DR. SELAVY’S MAGIC THEATRE and BENT.

Featured songs: “YOU’RE ON THE RADIO,” “I LIVE BY MY WITS,” “POOR BOY,” “STREETS OF BERLIN,” and “ELEPHANTS.”

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73 Ira Gershwin III

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Guest hosted by Jeff Lunden, this is the conclusion of a three-part program paying tribute to iconic lyricist Ira Gershwin known for his collaborations with his brother George, Jerome Kern and Harold Arlen, to name a few, and his numerous Broadway shows including FUNNY FACE, GIRL CRAZY, PORGY AND BESS and OF THEE I SING. This tribute includes an archival interview from 1969 with the lyricist discussing his successful career alongside his composer brother, George. Additionally, this episode includes rare recordings of Ira Gershwin singing his own songs and features music from DAMSEL IN DISTRESS, SHALL WE DANCE, OF THEE I SING, FUNNY FACE and THE GOLDWYN FOLLIES.

Featured archival acetate recordings: “HI-H0,” “WHO CARES?” “STIFF UPPER LIP,” “THE BABBIT AND THE BROMIDE,” plus bonus modern recordings of “I GOT RHYTHM,” and “LOVE IS HERE TO STAY.”

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72 Ira Gershwin II

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Guest hosted by Jeff Lunden, this is the second of a three-part program paying tribute to iconic lyricist Ira Gershwin known for his collaborations with his brother George, Jerome Kern and Harold Arlen, to name a few, and his numerous Broadway shows including FUNNY FACE, GIRL CRAZY, PORGY AND BESS and OF THEE I SING. This episode features the second half of a tribute to Gershwin as star-studded guests share personal anecdotes and perform Ira’s songs including Tony Bennett, Betty Comden, Adolph Green, Arthur Schwartz, Ginger Rogers, Judy Garland (via a movie clip), Tommy Tune and Twiggy.

Featured songs: “THEY ALL LAUGHED,” “LADY BE GOOD,” “WHO CARES?” “EMBRACEABLE YOU,” “BUT NOT FOR ME,” “THE MAN THAT GOT AWAY,” “LETS CALL THE WHOLE THING OFF,” and “LOVE IS HERE TO STAY.”

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71 Ira Gershwin I

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Guest hosted by Jeff Lunden, this is the first of a three-part program paying tribute to iconic lyricist Ira Gershwin known for his collaborations with his brother George, Jerome Kern and Harold Arlen, to name a few, and his numerous Broadway shows including FUNNY FACE, GIRL CRAZY, PORGY AND BESS and OF THEE I SING. This episode features a tribute to Gershwin as star-studded guests share personal anecdotes and perform his songs including Hal David, Margaret Whiting, Cab Calloway, Jonathan Sprague, Priscilla Baskerville, and Bruton Lane.

Featured songs: “MY SHIP,” “SOMEONE TO WATCH OVER ME,” “IT AIN’T NECESSARILY SO,” “BESS, YOU IS MY WOMAN NOW,” “OF THEE I SING,” and “PUT ME TO THE TEST.”

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70 Vincent Youmans III

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program featuring musical theater historian Alfred Simon discussing iconic composer Vincent Youmans, best known for writing the hit song “TEA FOR TWO.” On what would have been Youmans’ 83rd birthday, this tribute explores the composer’s prolific career and the unfortunate circumstances surrounding his untimely death. The episode includes songs from TAKE A CHANCE and FLYING DOWN TO RIO. Additionally, there is a bonus tribute to composer George Gershwin and features music from OF THEE I SING, PORGY AND BESS, and LADY BE GOOD.

Featured songs: “I WANT TO BE WITH YOU,” “RISE AND SHINE,” “MUSIC MAKES ME,” “CARIOCA,” “FLYING DOWN TO RIO,” “HELLO, GOOD MORNING,” “PORGY AND BESS,” “FASCINATING RHYTHM” and “TEA FOR TWO.”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1981. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/Anything Goes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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69 Vincent Youmans II

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program featuring musical theater historian Alfred Simon discussing iconic composer Vincent Youmans, best known for writing the hit song “TEA FOR TWO”. On what would have been Youmans’ 83rd birthday, this tribute explores the composer’s early work and features songs from HIT THE DECK, RAINBOW, GREAT DAY, SMILES, and THROUGH THE YEARS.

Featured songs: “HALLELUJAH,” “SOMETIMES I’M HAPPY,” “THE ONE GIRL,” “MORE THAN YOU KNOW,” “GREAT DAY,” “WITHOUT A SONG,” “IF I WERE YOU, LOVE,” “THROUGH THE YEARS,” and “DRUMS IN MY HEART.”

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68 Vincent Youmans I

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program featuring musical theater historian Alfred Simon discussing iconic composer Vincent Youmans, best known for writing the hit song “TEA FOR TWO”. On what would have been Youmans’ 83rd birthday, this tribute explores the composer’s early life and prolific career. The episode features songs from WILDFLOWER, OH, PLEASE! and NO, NO, NANETTE. Additionally, a rare recording of Youmans himself at the piano.

Featured songs: “Medley from NO, NO NANETTE,” “WILDFLOWER,” “I WANT TO BE HAPPY,” “PEACH ON THE BEACH,” “A MOMENT AGO,” “LIKE HE LOVES ME,” and “I KNOW THAT YOU KNOW.”

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67 Peaslee and Clarke II

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Guest hosted by Associate Producer Jeff Lunden, this is the conclusion of a two-part program featuring director/choreographer Martha Clarke and composer Richard Peaslee. Clarke is known as one of the founders of Pilobolus Dance Theater, and Peaslee for composing scores to such shows as Peter Brook’s MARAT/SADE and TELL ME LIES. Clarke and Peaslee discuss their collaboration on the dance/music/theatre piece THE GARDEN OF EARTHLY DELIGHTS based on the Hieronymus Bosch painting.

Featured music: Instrumental selections from “THE GARDEN OF EARTHLY DELIGHTS,” featuring musicians Eugene Friesen (cello), William Ruhl (percussion), and Steven Silverstein (18 reed instruments), recorded exclusively for this program.

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66 Peaslee and Clarke I

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Guest hosted by Associate Producer Jeff Lunden, this is the first of a two-part program featuring director/choreographer Martha Clarke and composer Richard Peaslee. Clarke is known as one of the founders of Pilobolus Dance Theater, and Peaslee for composing scores to such shows as Peter Brook’s MARAT/SADE and TELL ME LIES. Clarke and Peaslee discuss their collaboration on the dance/music/theatre piece THE GARDEN OF EARTHLY DELIGHTS based on the Hieronymus Bosch painting. Part One also features early work by Peaslee.

Featured music: “Medley of songs from MARAT/SADE,” “THE CORDAY WALTZ,” “BRANCHES” and “LET’S HAVE A PARTY” from a Peaslee/ Jean Claude Van Italie collaboration entitled KING OF THE U.S., plus a song called “ALICE” featuring the words of Lewis Caroll. Instrumental selections from “THE GARDEN OF EARTHLY DELIGHTS” featuring the musicians, Eugene Friesen, Bill Ruyle, and Steven Silverstein.

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65 Richard Rodgers III

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program featuring legendary composer Richard Rodgers, known for OKLAHOMA!, BABES IN ARMS, PAL JOEY, and THE SOUND OF MUSIC. On what was then the fifth anniversary of his passing, this tribute explores Rodgers entire career focusing on his most noteworthy collaborations with wordsmiths Lorenz Hart and Oscar Hammerstein II. The episode employs rarely heard songs and “off-the-beaten track” performances. Part Three features archival interviews with Rodgers, Sheldon Harnick, Liv Ullmann and George Hearn and a discussion about the origin of OKLAHOMA.

Featured songs: “LONELY ROOM,” “MY GIRL BACK HOME,” “IN MY OWN LITTLE CORNER,” “NO SONG MORE PLEASING,” “YOU COULD NOT LOVE ME MORE.”

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64 Richard Rodgers II

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program featuring legendary composer Richard Rodgers, known for OKLAHOMA!, BABES IN ARMS, PAL JOEY, and THE SOUND OF MUSIC. On what was then the fifth anniversary of his passing, this tribute explores Rodgers entire career focusing on his most noteworthy collaborations with wordsmiths Lorenz Hart and Oscar Hammerstein II. The episode employs rarely heard songs and “off-the-beaten track” performances. Part Two focuses on Rodgers’ work with lyricist, Lorenz Hart. In an archival interview with Arnold Michaelis, Rodgers discusses the inspiration for "My Heart Stood Still.”

Featured songs: “THERE’S ALWAYS ROOM FOR ONE MORE,” “WHERE THE HUDSON RIVER FLOWS,” “MY HEART STOOD STILL,” “A TREE IN THE PARK,” “IT’S EASY TO REMEMBER,” “I’VE GOTTA GET BACK TO NEW YORK,” THE LADY IS A TRAMP,” and “WAY OUT WEST ON WEST END AVENUE.”

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63 Richard Rodgers I

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program featuring legendary composer Richard Rodgers, known for OKLAHOMA!, BABES IN ARMS, PAL JOEY, and THE SOUND OF MUSIC. On what was then the fifth anniversary of his passing, this tribute explores Rodgers entire career focusing on his most noteworthy collaborations with wordsmiths Lorenz Hart and Oscar Hammerstein II. The episode employs rarely-heard songs and off-the-beaten track performances. Part One covers both editions of THE GARRICK GAIETIES in the 20s. Additionally, three songs are featured from a then contemporary show, THE GIFTS OF THE MAGI by Mark St. Germain and Randy Courts.

Featured songs: “THE CAROUSEL WALTZ,” “MANHATTAN,” “WHAT’S THE USE OF TALKING,” “THE GIFTS OF THE MAGI,” “BUM LUCK,” “POCKETS.”

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62 William Finn II

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a two-part program featuring talented composer-lyricist William Finn, known for his musicals FALSETTOS, A NEW BRAIN and SPELLING BEE. In this program, Finn discusses writing MARCH OF THE FALSETTOS and his collaboration with orchestrator Michael Starobin. Additionally, Finn performs a rare-to-find song cut from IN TROUSERS.

Featured songs: “THE PASSION OF RHODA,” “THE CHESS GAME,” “MAKING A HOME,” “THE GAMES I PLAY,” “MARVIN HITS TRINA,” “I NEVER WANTED TO LOVE YOU,” and “FATHER TO SON.”

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61 William Finn I

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a two-part program featuring talented composer-lyricist William Finn, known for his musicals FALSETTOS, A NEW BRAIN and SPELLING BEE. In this program, Finn takes us through his early theatrical experiences as he discusses the unproduced show, JOCKS and his first produced show, IN TROUSERS.

Featured songs: “HEAVY OBJECTS,” “WHEN HE STARTS TO FALL,” “ARE YOU REALLY COMMITTED TO SAVING BUDDY?” “WE PLAY BALL,” “LADY FEELS NO SHAME,” “MY HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEART,” “SET THOSE SAILS.”

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60 Robert Kimball III

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0000

The conclusion of a three-part program featuring noted musical theater historian, Robert Kimball discussing iconic songwriter Cole Porter’s 1930s shows. Porter’s best-known show from this period is the namesake for this podcast, ANYTHING GOES. Kimball provides insight into Porter's creative process while working on such shows as YOU NEVER KNOW and DUBARRY WAS A LADY.

Featured songs: “From Alpha To Omega,” “At Long Last Love,” “Friendship,” “Anything Goes,” “Let’s Not Talk About Love.”

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59 Robert Kimball II

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0000

The second of a three-part program featuring noted musical theater historian, Robert Kimball discussing iconic songwriter Cole Porter’s 1930s shows. Porter’s best-known show from this period is the namesake for this podcast, ANYTHING GOES. Kimball provides insight into Porter's creative process while working on such musicals as NYMPH ERRANT, JUBILEE, and RED, HOT AND BLUE. Also, Kimball talks about several of Porter’s most famous collaborations with 30’s superstars like Ethel Merman, Fred Astaire and Gertrude Lawrence.

Featured songs: “The Physician,” “I Get A Kick Out Of You,” “You’re The Top,” “Begin The Beguine,” “Just One Of Those Things,” “Down In The Depths.”

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58 Robert Kimball I

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0000

The first of a three-part program featuring noted musical theater historian, Robert Kimball discussing iconic songwriter Cole Porter’s 1930s shows. Porter’s best-known show from this period is the namesake for this podcast, ANYTHING GOES. Kimball provides insight into Porter's creative process while working on such musicals as THE NEW YORKERS and THE GAY DIVORCEE.

Featured songs: “I’m Getting Myself Ready for You,” “I Happen To Like New York,” “Love For Sale,” “Night And Day,” “How’s Your Romance?”

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26 Writers Perform Their Songs II

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 11:00:00 -0000

Part two of a special program featuring some of Broadway’s greatest composers and lyricists talking about and performing their own songs. This episode includes performances by Cy Coleman, Peter Link, Harold Rome, Micki Grant, Frank Loesser, Stephen Schwartz, Betty Comden, Adolph Green, Alan Menken, and Jule Styne.

Featured songs: “A Moment of Madness,” “King Of Hearts,” “Sing Me A Song Of Social Significance,” “One Big Union,” “Who’s Gonna Teach The Children How To Sing?” “Bloop, Bleep,” “Prestidigitation,” “You Can Always Catch Our Act At The Met,” “Pink Fish,” and “Stay With The Happy People.”

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25 Writers Perform Their Songs I

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 11:00:00 -0000

The first of a two-part program featuring some of Broadway’s greatest composers and lyricists speaking about and performing their own songs. This episode includes performances by Cole Porter, Craig Carnelia, Burton Lane, Alan Menken, Harold Arlen, Jerry Herman, Daniel Schreier & Michael Roth, Stephen Schwartz, and Sheldon Harnick.

Featured songs: “Anything Goes,” “The Things I Learned In High School,” “Chin Up, Cheerio,” “People Collecting Things,” “Buds Won’t Bud,” “I’ll Be Here Tomorrow,” “Things Are Looking Up,” “Good Time Ladies Rag,” and “When Messiah Comes.”

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17 The Making of "La Cage Aux Folles"

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 11:00:00 -0000

A look at the making of the 1984 Tony Award-winning musical, LA CAGE AUX FOLLES based on the movie of the same name. Creators Harvey Fierstein, Jerry Herman, Arthur Laurents, and star George Hearn all discuss their involvement in the show. They discuss their collaboration and the challenges of bringing this now classic show to the Broadway stage.

Featured songs: “Prelude,” “We Are What We Are,” “Song On The Sand,” “La Cage Aux Folles,” “Look Over There,” “I Am What I Am,” and “The Best Of Times.”

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01 The Making of "Sunday in the Park with George"

Sun, 07 Mar 2021 11:10:00 -0000

Stephen Sondheim, James Lapine and orchestrator Michael Starobin discuss the creation of their Pulitzer-prize winning musical. Hear Sondheim and Lapine talk about working with stars, Mandy Patinkin and Bernadette Peters. From their visit to the Chicago Art Museum to see this famous Seurat painting to opening night at the Booth Theatre on Broadway, go behind the scenes on this remarkable show.

Featured songs from the original Broadway Cast Recording: “Sunday In The Park With George,” “Color And Light,” “The Day Off,” “Beautiful,” “Everybody Loves Louis,” “Dog Song,” “Finishing The Hat,” “We Do Not Belong Together,” “Children And Art,” “Move On,” and “Sunday.”

Originally produced and broadcast in 1986. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/AnythingGoes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Sound mixing by David Rapkin. Associate producer Jeff Lunden. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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Podcast Trailer

Sun, 07 Mar 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Take a trip backstage with Broadway’s best – exclusive interviews with the leading creators of musical theatre. Based on the popular 1980s radio series produced and hosted by award-winning director and producer, Paul Lazarus, ANYTHING GOES is a celebration of storytelling through song, past, present and future. Now available in 30-minute segments. Hundreds of episodes featuring show-stopping interviews with composers, lyricists, book writers, directors and performing legends from the Broadway stage. A treasure trove of rare and famous songs performed by the original singers as well as the writers themselves. The series showcases interviews with living composers and lyricists like Stephen Sondheim, Gretchen Cryer and Stephen Schwartz, tributes to past greats like the Gershwins, Cole Porter, Comden & Green, Dorothy Parker and Ethel Merman as well as early encounters with now famous tunesmiths like Alan Menken, William Finn and Craig Carnelia. Anything Goes is everything Musical Theatre. Join Paul Lazarus as he explores the dazzling history of the musical stage.

Originally produced and broadcast in 1986. For more information go to AnythingGoesPL.com or BPN.FM/AnythingGoes. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Sound mixing by David Rapkin. Associate producer Jeff Lunden. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.

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