The Back Stairs Podcast

Ep. 7 - What’s So Great About Community Theatre? With Kristen Searles Brackett

In this episode, hosts Aaron, Jon, and Scott are joined by Kristen Searles Brackett. A local treasure  (and friend of the podcast), Kristen has had a prolific theatrical career as an actress, producer, and most recently director. Together, she and the BSP Guys will recount her history, share some stories, and unpack what’s so great about community theatre!

Ep. 6 - Having Fun with Jonny Bolduc

In this episode, Aaron, Jon, and Scott sit down for a conversation with local actor and director Jonny Buldoc. Together they discuss the joy Jonny exudes on stage, tell some stories, and talk about some of Jonny’s passions and upcoming projects.

Ep. 5 - Live from the Norway Music and Arts Festival

In this episode, Aaron, Jon, and Scott are recording live from the Norway Music and Arts Festival. This annual event is the highlight of the summer for many in the historic downtown of Norway, Maine, during which the arts are celebrated. The BSP Guys are joined in lively conversation by local treasures Kristen Searles Brackett, Jonathan Leavitt, Michael Newsom, Maren Pinkham, and Norman Hutchins.

Bonus Episode - Pitching a Show

In this special bonus episode, Executive Producer Janelle Raven and Jon Potter look back upon their time co-directing OHMPAA’s production of Godspell. Co-hosts Aaron and Scott chime in as the group discusses what it takes to stand out when pitching a show to a board of directors as well as some upcoming opportunities for prospective directors in the area.

Bonus Episode - That Little Diva Quality

In this special bonus episode, Executive Producer Janelle Raven and The BSP Guys outline 5 tips for how to respond to instruction well. Jon discovers that the advice is secretly an intervention. Scott discovers that he needs to talk more. Aaron discovers the dangers of double entendres.

Ep. 4 - Flipping the Script with the BSP Crew

In this episode, Executive Producer Janelle Raven interviews the Back Stairs Podcast Guys (Aaron, Jon, and Scott). Together they will explore the relationship between actors and directors, and what it looks like to give and take direction well. They will also discuss the Guys’ theatrical histories a bit, share some stories, give some advice, and play a game. 

Ep. 3 - Coming Home with Joshua Witham

In this episode, Aaron Skolfield, along with co-hosts Jon Potter and Scott Parsons discuss the wonderful feeling of coming home after one has been away for a while. They are joined by Joshua Witham, a local actor, music director, and talented multi-instrumentalist. An Oxford Hills native, Josh recounts his roots in local theatre and his time trying to make it as an actor in New York City before returning home to Maine. Together, the guys will discuss their love for the local community and the relationships found therein, play a game, and give some advice.

Ep. 2 - Becoming with Daniel Rennie

In this episode, Scott Parsons, along with co-hosts Aaron Skolfield and Jon Potter, discuss what it means to “become” a theatrical character. They are joined by Daniel Rennie, a local actor and friend of the podcast who is known for his larger than life character roles on stage. Together they will explore the concept of “becoming” using specific examples from Dan’s life and theatrical resume. They will also play a game and talk about Daniel’s upcoming role in OHMPAA’s Circle Mirror Transformation.

Ep. 1 - Maximum Effort with Janelle Raven

In this episode, Jon Potter, along with co-hosts Aaron Skolfield and Scott Parsons explore what it means to apply “maximum effort” to both small and large roles in the theatre. They are joined by Janelle Raven, executive producer of the Back Stairs Podcast and local performance artist. Together they will explore specific examples of “maximum effort” from Janelle’s theatrical resumé, give some advice, and play a game.