Podcast
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark
“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. This episode I'll be talking the amazing Catherine Castellanos. Let’s get into it.”
- Episodes
- 33
- Releases
- Weekly
- Typical length
- 58 min
- On air since
- 2026
- Latest episode
- 1 day ago
Episodes
33 episodes, from the first
Season 1
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54 min
Enter Stage Left with Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Catherine Castellanos
Episode 1
Show notes
Welcome to the very first episode of Enter Stage Left, where host Yvette Monique Clark dives into real conversations with theatre artists from every corner of the industry.
Kicking things off is the brilliant Katherine Castellanos—an acclaimed performer known for her powerful, nuanced work on stage. In this episode, Katherine opens up about taking on the iconic role of Macbeth in a bold new adaptation set in 1977 New York, where the story is reimagined through a queer lens and a deeply human perspective.
Together, Yvette and Katherine explore what it means to fully embody a character, the rituals and discipline behind the craft, and the magic that happens when rehearsal transforms into performance. Katherine shares her personal journey into acting—from a life-changing high school performance to building a career rooted in authenticity rather than tradition.
They also get real about:
• The highs and chaos of live theatre (including onstage mishaps)
• Finding confidence in spaces that can feel elitist
• The emotional and mental work behind performance
• How the industry is shifting with self-tapes, social media, and AIAt its core, this episode is a celebration of storytelling, resilience, and the irreplaceable human connection that makes theatre so powerful.
Whether you’re an artist, a theatre lover, or just someone chasing your passion—this conversation will leave you inspired.
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1 hr 2 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Paris Nix
Episode 2
Show notes
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!
Reunited after The Wiz, Broadway performer Paris Nix joins the show to talk about his journey from Philadelphia to New York, standout roles in Hamilton, and creating award-winning original work. From audition struggles to self-tapes and survival jobs, he keeps it real about the highs and lows of the industry.
A funny, honest, and inspiring conversation about letting go of perfection, staying authentic, and finding joy in the work.
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55 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Kenney M. Green-Tilford
Episode 3
Show notes
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 interviews Kenny M. Green-Tilford, a Fresno-born, NYC-based performer and director, about his journey into theater, from choir to professional stages. They explore his evolution into directing, his fast-paced collaborative process, and how he balances vision with actor and designer input. Kenny shares insights on storytelling, leadership, creative conflict, and working under constraints, while reflecting on standout projects and dream roles. The episode closes with rapid-fire questions and a candid, humorous look at life in theater.
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1 hr 4 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Mark Saunders
Episode 4
Show notes
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, a dynamic theater artist shares their journey from early musical struggles to a career in musical theater, cabaret, and touring productions. They reflect on pivotal influences, career-defining moments, and the creation of a deeply personal cabaret show born from real-life experiences.
The conversation dives into the realities of the industry—financial instability, rejection, lack of feedback, and the emotional toll performers face—balanced by unforgettable highs like touring and major performances.
We also explore how artists are adapting to a changing landscape shaped by self-tapes, social media, and content creation.
An honest, funny, and insightful look at what it truly means to build a life in theater.
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56 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special Guest Gregg T. Daniel
Episode 5
Show notes
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, we dive into the journey of an artist who turned early inspiration into a lasting career in theater—as an actor, director, and an artistic director of his own theatre
From growing up immersed in New York’s vibrant theater scene to navigating the realities of building a sustainable career, this conversation explores the passion, discipline, and evolution required to stay in the game.
We discuss the transition from acting to directing, and why it’s less about changing paths and more about expanding your creative voice. You’ll hear insights on collaboration, leadership in the rehearsal room, and how great directors create space for artists to do their best work.
The episode also tackles the changing landscape of theater—embracing new voices, adapting to modern demands like content creation, and staying open to innovation without losing the heart of storytelling.
Ultimately, this conversation redefines success in the arts—not as numbers or visibility, but as the ability to move an audience and spark meaningful connection.
Whether you’re an actor, director, or creative navigating your own path, this episode offers wisdom, honesty, and inspiration from someone who’s lived it.
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55 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Brandon James Gwinn
Episode 6
Show notes
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!
On this episode of Into Stage Left, host Yvette Monique Clark sits down with composer, writer, and performer Brandon James Gwinn for an in-depth conversation about the art and reality of creating musical theater.
From his early beginnings in Tennessee to building a career in New York, Brandon shares how he found his voice as a composer and what it takes to turn an idea into a fully realized musical. They dive into his creative process, writing both music and lyrics, collaborating on new works, and adapting stories for the stage.
Brandon also opens up about creative blocks, the discipline behind the craft, and the tough but necessary process of cutting material—even the songs you love.
Insightful, honest, and full of behind-the-scenes wisdom, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about theater and storytelling.
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55 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Dan Pardo
Episode 7
Show notes
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!
What does a music director actually do in musical theater—and how do you even become one?
I sat down with a multifaceted music director, pianist, and copyist to talk about their unexpected journey from a small town in Pennsylvania to working in New York City’s theater scene.
Starting in community theater at just six years old and playing piano for productions by age ten, their path wasn’t linear—but it was driven by curiosity, adaptability, and a deep love for music. He shares how he discovered music direction (almost by accident), worked with major industry professionals, and built a career shaping the sound of live theater.
We also dive into: Wh at a music director really does behind the scenes 🎭 How music influences acting choices 🎼 Balancing a composer’s intent with an actor’s individuality 🎧 The process of learning and interpreting a score 📝 What a music copyist is—and why it’s such a crucial skill. The unsung heros of musical theatre!
Whether you’re an actor, musician, or theater lover, this episode gives you a deeper look into one of the most important—and often misunderstood—roles in the industry
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57 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Drew Wutke
Episode 8
Show notes
“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 opens Into Stage Left with her signature relaxed, living-room-style vibe—pulling listeners into candid conversation about life in theater, from onstage to backstage and everywhere in between.
This episode features music director and educator Drew Wutke, who immediately brings humor, chaos, and charm into the room, joking his way through the interview while grounding it in a deeply honest story of his path through music, ministry, and musical theater.
Drew traces his journey from small-town Girard, Kansas, where he grew up in a deeply community-centered, sports- and church-driven family, to discovering music through church organ playing and early piano lessons. Originally on a path toward teaching, he detoured through landscaping, church work, and even pastoring before realizing his deeper pull toward music direction and musical theater.
He describes a pivotal shift during grad school in Oklahoma City, where mentorship under Jan McDaniel helped him realize that professional music directing and vocal coaching were viable careers—not just academic roles. That revelation ultimately pushed him toward New York City with no job lined up, limited savings, and one connection who helped him start working immediately in the industry.
From there, Drew reflects on building a career as a Broadway music director and coach, emphasizing that his approach is rooted in individualized collaboration, deep listening, and understanding both the voice and the storytelling inside the music. He describes his method as “de-mystifying” scores for performers, connecting musical structure to emotional and narrative clarity.
A major theme of the conversation is trust in the rehearsal room—between performers and music directors, and within the creative process itself. Drew emphasizes that his job is not only musical execution but storytelling leadership, guiding performers through complexity while protecting their confidence.
Yvette and Drew also connect over the intensity of rehearsal life, shared “I’ve lost it in rehearsal” moments, and the reality of live performance chaos—keys changing, entrances missed, and the unpredictable nature of theater. Both reflect on how community, instinct, and survival shape artists who keep showing up anyway.
The episode closes with humor, honesty, and a shared recognition: theater is built on time pressure, trust, and a little bit of beautiful chaos—and everyone in the room is learning how to stay in the groove together.
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56 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Michael Anthony Sylvester
Episode 9
Show notes
“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.”
On this episode of Enter Stage Left, Yvette Monique Clark sits down with performer, choreographer, director, and teaching artist Michael Anthony Sylvester for a powerful conversation about artistry, survival, leadership, and creating safe spaces in theater.
Michael shares how a public school theater program in Fort Worth, Texas changed his life, how Michael Jackson videos sparked his love of dance, and how his unconventional path led him from choreographing school shows to working professionally right out of high school. Together, Yvette and Michael talk about imposter syndrome, rehearsal-room culture, collaboration, ego, mentorship, and why the arts remain a lifeline for so many young people.
This episode is a love letter to the process, the people behind the work, and the magic that happens before the lights come up.
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1 hr 4 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Saint Aubyn
Episode 10
Show notes
“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 powerful and heartfelt conversation, two seasoned performers reflect on their journeys through the entertainment industry — from Brooklyn beginnings and legendary mentors to life on the road with Smokey Joe’s Cafe.
They discuss the realities of touring, navigating iconic roles, the evolution of auditions and self-tapes, artistic authenticity, mentorship, burnout, and finding identity beyond the stage. Along the way, they share unforgettable stories about Gregory Hines, Dance Africa, one-nighter tours, and the importance of collaboration in theater and performance.
This episode is a celebration of artistry, resilience, and staying true to yourself in an ever-changing industry.
✨ Topics Include:
• Growing up in dance and performance
• Mentorship from industry legends
• The legacy of Smokey Joe’s Cafe
• Self-tapes vs live auditions
• Burnout and self-care for performers
• Authenticity in creative work
• Life on the road as touring artists -
55 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Taylor Peterson
Episode 11
Show notes
“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.”
What does it really take to play one of the hardest instruments in the orchestra?
In this episode of Enter Stage Left Podcast, Yvette Monique Clark sits down with a professional French horn player to talk about the hidden world of orchestras, Broadway pits, Carnegie Hall, and the physical discipline behind life as a working musician.
From why the French horn is considered one of the most difficult instruments to master, to the pressure of counting dozens of silent measures before one perfect entrance, this conversation pulls audiences behind the curtain of what musicians truly experience.
The episode also dives into: • Performing at Carnegie Hall • The emotional full-circle moment of returning to Carnegie as a professional musician • Broadway pit culture and networking • The physical demands of brass playing • Stress management, endurance, and musician wellness • Teaching the next generation of performers • The realities of working in New York’s music scene
Whether you’re a theatre lover, musician, performer, educator, or just fascinated by the artistry behind live performance, this episode offers an honest and inspiring look into the unseen work that powers the stage.
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58 min
Enter Staged Left Hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Anthony Wayne
Episode 12
Show notes
“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 sits down with Broadway performer, producer, director, and founder Anthony Wayne for an honest conversation about the journey behind the spotlight.
Anthony takes us back to Norfolk, Virginia, where his artistic path began through childhood theater and the mentors who saw something special in him before he saw it himself. He shares how years of training in music, dance, and theater slowly became the “gumbo” that shaped him into the multifaceted artist audiences know today.
The conversation dives into finding purpose in the industry, creating opportunities when doors aren’t open, and what it means to build something bigger than yourself. Anthony opens up about producing his own work, launching Black Broadway Men, mentoring the next generation, and protecting his emotional well-being in an industry that often demands everything from performers.
We also get stories from Broadway, lessons from legends like Ben Vereen, the surprising origin of his clogging skills, and a powerful discussion about community, self-care, and understanding who truly deserves access to your energy.
If you're an artist, creator, performer, or someone navigating purpose and passion, this conversation is packed with inspiration and real talk.
✨ In this episode:
• Growing up in Norfolk and discovering theater
• Training as a true triple-threat performer
• Finding inspiration through Fosse
• Broadway life and creating your own opportunities
• The creation of Black Broadway Men
• Advice from Ben Vereen: “Keep working”
• Mental health, boundaries, and protecting your peace
• Producing original work and building Mighty RealLike, comment, and subscribe for more conversations about theater, storytelling, and the people who keep the arts alive.
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1 hr
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Darius-Anthony Robinson
Episode 13
Show notes
“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.”
On this episode of Enter Stage Left, Yvette Monique Clark sits down with the fabulous Darius Anthony Robinson for a conversation that goes far beyond dance and choreography. From growing up performing in Dallas, Texas to teaching the next generation of artists, Darius opens up about what it truly means to be an educator in today’s entertainment industry.
Together they dive into the realities of preparing students for an industry that often promises dreams while delivering hard lessons. Darius shares his journey from teaching praise dance at his grandmother’s church to becoming a college educator and mentor, and talks candidly about the responsibility educators carry when shaping young artists.
This conversation explores:
• Why students need confidence as much as technique
• The emotional responsibility teachers have toward young performers
• Breaking cycles of harsh, trauma-based teaching methods
• Preparing artists for rejection, callbacks, and uncertainty
• Why possibility should never be limited by body type or expectations
• The difference between teaching survival versus teaching hope
• Real talk about Broadway, auditions, and navigating the industry
One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is Darius's philosophy of embracing "all the Fs" — failures, f*ck ups, fights, and everything in between. Because growth doesn't come from avoiding mistakes; it comes from learning how to move through them. This episode is funny, honest, and deeply human — a conversation about art, mentorship, and making room for the next generation to thrive.
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57 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Andrew Diamond
Episode 14
Show notes
“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.”
On this episode of Enter Stage Left, Yvette Monique Clark sits down with a seasoned Head Electrician and Lighting Programmer for a fascinating deep dive into one of the most misunderstood areas of theatre: lighting.
From seeing Broadway shows as a child because of a family connection to the industry, to building a career spanning theatre, concerts, corporate events, and immersive productions, this conversation shines a spotlight on the people who literally bring productions to life.
Topics include:
✨ What a Head Electrician actually does behind the scenes ✨ The difference between a Lighting Designer and a Lighting Programmer ✨ Why Broadway and Off-Broadway venues face unique technical challenges ✨ The logistics of loading in productions throughout New York City ✨ Working on immersive theatre experiences, including Masquerade and Phantom ✨ The technical demands of programming large-scale LED and pixel-mapped productions ✨ How lighting transforms emotion, atmosphere, and storytelling ✨ Why communication and collaboration are just as important as technical skill in theatre
The conversation also explores the realities of tech week, the stress of programming under pressure, and what it takes to survive some of the most technically challenging productions in New York theatre.
Whether you're an actor, designer, technician, theatre student, or simply curious about what happens backstage, this episode offers an inside look at the artistry and engineering that audiences rarely get to see.
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57 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Justin Hall
Episode 15
Show notes
“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.
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1 hr
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest John Bronston
Episode 16
Show notes
“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
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56 min
Enter Stage Left Hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest John Saunders
Episode 17
Show notes
“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.
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43 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Robert Diamond
Episode 18
Show notes
“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.”
How do you turn a fan website into the world's biggest theatre platform?
Robert Diamond, founder of BroadwayWorld, joins Yvette Monique Clark for an engaging conversation about the intersection of theatre, technology, and entrepreneurship.
From launching a Michael Crawford fan website in the early days of the internet to creating the world's largest theatre news platform, Robert reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped BroadwayWorld and the lessons he's learned over more than two decades in theatre media.
Together they discuss the changing landscape of theatre journalism, the growing importance of personal branding for performers, BroadwayWorld's response during the pandemic, innovations like Next On Stage and StageMag, and the opportunities and challenges facing the future of live theatre.
Whether you're an artist, producer, educator, or lifelong theatre lover, this episode offers an insightful look at how one person's passion helped reshape the way the world experiences theatre.
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55 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Deonte Warren
Episode 19
Show notes
“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 Broadway performer, director, music director, voice pedagogue, and educator Deonté Warren for an insightful conversation about the artistry and science behind the human voice.
Deonté shares how growing up in Nashville, singing with his mother, and discovering Broadway through a high school choir trip inspired his career. He discusses the mentors who shaped his path, his transition into higher education, and why he believes today's performers need both curiosity and continuous growth.
Together, they explore vocal pedagogy, the differences between a voice teacher and a vocal coach, audition strategies, vocal health, sustainable singing, and the importance of understanding that every singer's voice is unique. Deonté also offers practical advice on recognizing unhealthy vocal habits, tracking what affects your voice, and preparing for long-term success both onstage and in the classroom.
Whether you're a professional performer, student, educator, or simply fascinated by the craft of singing, this episode offers valuable insights into developing a healthy, authentic, and lasting artistic career.
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55 min
Enter Stage Left hosted by Yvette Monique Clark with Special guest Nancy Rodriguez
Episode 20
Show notes
“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 acclaimed actor Nancy Rodriguez for a thoughtful conversation about the power of theatre education, the art of classical performance, and building an authentic acting career.
Nancy shares how New York City's public arts programs shaped her path from LaGuardia High School to Boston University and eventually to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Together they discuss Shakespeare, contemporary theatre, comedy, actor training, collaboration, and why the most compelling performances come from embracing your own voice rather than imitating someone else's.
This episode is an inspiring listen for actors, directors, educators, students, and anyone passionate about the craft of storytelling.
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