Participate - A True Public Podcast

Join Marya and Shaunda as they talk with Céline Rosenthal, director of The Public's upcoming adaptation of "Dial M for Murder," on stage Sept. 11–29 at the O'Reilly Theater. Rosenthal, a leader of queer theater, acclaimed director, and Tony Award-nominated producer, talks about their background in international nonprofit work, time spent as a New York City paramedic, and duct tape abilities – all in service of art. Learn more here: Ring of Keys Pankhudi Foundation Tony Award nomination "Dial M for Murder" at The Public Get tickets Meet the Cast Read an excerpt from this episode

Join Marya and Shaunda as they sit with Josh Borenstein, former managing director of Long Wharf Theatre and professor at the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale, to discuss the delicate balance of fiscal responsibility in the arts. In this episode, Josh discusses strategies for maintaining financial health in a theater company, the importance of budgeting and financial planning, and how to sustain artistic integrity while ensuring economic stability. Gain insights into the practical aspects of theatre management, from fundraising and revenue streams to cost control and financial oversight. Perfect for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes financial workings of a successful theatre.

Explore the intricate world of theater production with Pittsburgh Public Theater Director of Productions and Operations Monica Bowin, who brings insights into union roles, creative problem-solving, and the balance between art and fiscal responsibility. Discover how passion, collaboration, and dedication drive excellence in the arts.

Join Shay Wafer on Participate as we explore the future of theater leadership. Shay discusses the intersection of fiscal responsibility and inclusivity, emphasizing how diverse leadership fosters innovative funding and community relevance. She highlights the audience's role in shaping inclusive artistic excellence and shares insights on mentoring to attract and retain talent, and offers practical advice on navigating challenges and creating inclusive environments in the arts. Don't miss this insightful conversation on shaping a vibrant, equitable future for theater. For more, visit PPT.org/Participate.

Playwright and Pittsburgh icon Mark Clayton Southers and City Theatre Company Co-Artistic Director Monteze Freeland join Marya and Shaunda to talk freedom fighters, justice seekers, and cowboy history through their world premiere collaboration THE COFFIN MAKER, on stage now through June 16 at the O'Reilly Theater. For more information, visit PPT.org/Coffin.

Sheldon Epps, a renowned artistic leader, director, and producer, built his career across the country after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University. The long-time leader of Pasadena Playhouse and current senior artistic advisor of Washington, D.C.'s Ford's Theatre, recounts his career in his new book, "My Own Directions: A Black Man's Journey in the American Theatre." Marya and Shaunda chat with Sheldon, who for years was a close mentor of Shaunda and an admired colleague of Marya. The trio discuss what it takes to reinvigorate and sustain cultural institutions.

Playwrights TJ Young and Mora V. Harris, both members of the Pittsburgh Playwrights Collective and the local representatives for the Pittsburgh chapter of the Dramatists Guild, join The Public's Artistic and Managing Directors Marya Sea Kaminski and Shaunda McDill to talk about writing plays while teaching artists, the importance of collaboration in the creative process, playwrights' standards and guidance from the Dramatists Guild, and line dancing at The Public. Plus, listen for some special insight into the state of the industry straight from the front lines as Shaunda McDill heads to a crisis conference at Harvard with other leaders in regional theater.

Pittsburgh Public Theater is proud to present PARTICIPATE: A True Public Podcast. Artistic Director Marya Sea Kaminski and Managing Director Shaunda McDill sit down in this episode to discuss The Public's core values: artistic excellence, fiscal responsibility, community relevance, and attracting and retaining talent. Want more Pittsburgh Public Theater? Connect with us on Facebook or Instagram, or visit our website at www.ppt.org. Better yet, get a ticket to an upcoming performance, starting at just $37.

Pittsburgh Public Theater Artistic Director Marya Sea Kaminski and Managing Director Shaunda McDill bring you amazing guests every week, taking a deep dive into the state of the arts, the industry of professional theater, culture at large, and pressing conversations with top leaders in the field. New episodes every other Wednesday at 8 a.m.