“Welcome to Enter Stage Left. I’m your host, Yvette Monique Clark. This is the spot where we kick it about all things theatre — with veterans and newbies alike. From onstage, to backstage, and even under the stage, we’re talking stories, craft, and the passion that keeps the theatre world alive. So whether you're a performer, a crew member, or just a lover of the stage, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into it.”

In this episode of Enter Stage Left, host Yvette Monique Clark welcomes a veteran Artistic Director for an in-depth conversation about the realities of leading a regional theatre.

From his first childhood role as the Gingerbread Man to overseeing seasons, fundraising efforts, auditions, production budgets, and company culture, he shares the unexpected path that led him into arts leadership. Together, they explore how an actor's experience informs the way he supports performers, why creating sustainable working conditions matters, and how theatre organizations balance artistic ambition with financial responsibility.

The discussion also covers season selection, audience trends, post-pandemic challenges, the importance of community, and the evolving role of regional theatre in making quality productions accessible to audiences.

A thoughtful and insightful look at the people who guide theatre companies from behind the scenes and help bring great stories to life.

“Welcome to Enter Stage Left. I’m your host, Yvette Monique Clark. This is the spot where we kick it about all things theatre — with veterans and newbies alike. From onstage, to backstage, and even under the stage, we’re talking stories, craft, and the passion that keeps the theatre world alive. So whether you're a performer, a crew member, or just a lover of the stage, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into it.”

Host Yvette Monique Clark welcomes music director John Bronston for an in-depth conversation about the many roles a music director plays in theatre—from casting and vocal arranging to collaborating with directors, orchestrators, and performers.

John reflects on his journey from performer to Broadway music director, discusses the growing importance of actor-musicians, and shares his philosophy on adapting music to fit performers rather than forcing performers to fit the music. The conversation also explores audition culture, rehearsal room dynamics, and the importance of protecting joy in the creative process.

A thoughtful and inspiring look behind the curtain at the artistry that brings musical theatre to life.

Subscribe, like, and follow for more conversations from onstage, backstage, and even under the stage. Apple podcasts and Spotify @ Enter Stage Left Instagram @ Enterstageleft2025 Email @ enterstageleft2025@gmail.com Facebook @ Enter Stage Left

“Welcome to Enter Stage Left. I’m your host, Yvette Monique Clark. This is the spot where we kick it about all things theatre — with veterans and newbies alike. From onstage, to backstage, and even under the stage, we’re talking stories, craft, and the passion that keeps the theatre world alive. So whether you're a performer, a crew member, or just a lover of the stage, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into it.”

Broadway costumes do far more than dress performers—they tell stories, define characters, and help bring productions to life.

In this episode of Enter Stage Left, host Yvette Monique Clark welcomes Broadway costume professional Justin for a conversation about his journey from Ohio community theatre to New York's theatre scene. Justin discusses discovering costume design in college, navigating career setbacks, interning at Juilliard, and rising through the ranks to become an associate costume designer on major productions.

The episode also explores the differences between assistant and associate costume designers, how costume departments operate, and the collaborative process that brings a show's visual world to life.

A must-listen for theatre lovers, aspiring designers, and anyone curious about the artistry happening behind the curtain.

🎙️ Enter Stage Left — exploring theatre from onstage, backstage, and under the stage.