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Makin’ It Happen: A Career in the Performing Arts

Makin’ It Happen; A Career in the Performing Arts Podcast gives you inside information on how to break into the professional performance arts industry; on stage including Broadway, in film, on television, commercials, print, voice over and more.

Podcast · By Leesa Csolak · English · Official site

Indexed episodes, last 90 days
5
Latest publication
Sep 6, 2026
Audience
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Earliest in this view
Aug 9, 2026

Latest episodes

  1. Episode · Sep 6, 2026

    Showstopper's Host, Julian Thorn shares his Journey from Performer to Iconic MC (opens the original)

    Episode notes · Positive tone

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    Host Leesa Csolak interviews Julian Thorn, veteran performer and longtime Showstopper MC, about his path from school choirs and Saturday dance classes to a 35+ year career onstage and behind the scenes. Julian shares clear, practical advice on finding your voice and training, navigating auditions, staying connected with agents, using downtime productively, and embracing every body type and background in the arts.

  2. Episode · Aug 30, 2026

    Bethany Tesarck’s Unscripted Journey to a Professional Life on Broadway (opens the original)

    Episode notes · Positive tone

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    Host Leesa Csolak talks with Bethany Tesarck about her journey from booking her first Broadway show, Gypsy at age seven to swinging on Broadway at twelve, originating a track in Diana, and filming the show for Netflix during the pandemic to Death Becomes Her and more. They discuss backstage life, quick changes, the role of stage crews, and emotional challenges unique to swings and child performers.

  3. Episode · Aug 23, 2026

    Becoming a NYC Casting Director, Jason Styres Story (opens the original)

    Episode notes

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    Leesa Csolak interviews casting director Jason Styres about his journey from Alabama to New York and his approach to casting for theatre. They discuss auditions, first appointments, callbacks, internships, mentorship, and the practical realities of working in casting.

  4. Episode · Aug 16, 2026

    Brandon J. Large's Rise to Broadway (opens the original)

    Episode notes · Positive tone

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    Brandon J. Large shares his journey from early dance training and a theatrical family upbringing to touring nationally (Prom, Aladdin), working with Lady Gaga, and making his Broadway debut in The Great Gatsby. He describes balancing college, auditioning, swinging multiple tracks, and the realities of touring and Broadway life.

  5. Episode · Aug 9, 2026

    Stunt Woman and Actress, Michelle C. Smith Shares her Journey to Hollywood (opens the original)

    Episode notes

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    Michelle C. Smith traces her journey from a world-class baton twirler to circus performer, stuntwoman, and actor, sharing candid stories about training, neurodivergence, and the culture that shaped her career.

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