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.
- 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
Showstopper's Host, Julian Thorn shares his Journey from Performer to Iconic MC (opens the original)
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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.
Bethany Tesarck’s Unscripted Journey to a Professional Life on Broadway (opens the original)
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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.
Becoming a NYC Casting Director, Jason Styres Story (opens the original)
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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.
Brandon J. Large's Rise to Broadway (opens the original)
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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.
Stunt Woman and Actress, Michelle C. Smith Shares her Journey to Hollywood (opens the original)
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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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