William Bivins is our next guest on the Yay.  Bill is the creator of Apocrypha Media and its podcast,  Pulp Scripture – a unique way to listen to verses of the bible with an audio drama twist.  Norman and I talk to Bill to find out his motivation on creating Pulp Scripture, his upbringing and where he sees himself in the future.

Apocrypha Media’s website is here: https://www.apocryphamedia.com/listen
Their Spotify page is here: https://open.spotify.com/show/39OOKYBZlPDlcQCg6NITgU

You can reach William directly via Facebook (William Bivins)

SHOWS:

Folktales from Around The World (Silicon Valley Shakes)
August 13 – 29
Radhika Rao (Episode 21 & 131) and Eiko Yamamoto (Episode 120) is in the show; Anne Yumi Kobori  (Episode 192) is directing the show and has written one piece (The Crane Wife)
https://www.svshakespeare.org/our-season/folktales-from-around-the-world/

Improv 4 Life Classes
By Crystal Brown (Episode 62)
August 15-29, 1pm – 2pm PST
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/improv-4-life-pay-what-you-want-improv-classes-tickets-16419155129

Central Works Script Club
You’ll download and read a play script, send in your questions for the playwright and then listen to an audio interview with the playwright!  Delivered monthly.
www.centralworks.org
vimeo.com/42223001

ShakesPod – Titus Andronicus & Richard III
Titus Andronicus – available June 26
Alan Coyne (Episode 29) is Demetrius

Richard III – available August 28
Lamont Ridgell (Episode 122) is Richard III
Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episode 96) is the Dutchess of York and others
https://www.svshakespeare.org/our-season/shakespod/

Our wonderful consulting producer Mallory Somera (Episode 151) is producing a podcast for KCBS Radio called Connect The Dots, a weekly news podcast, hosted by WCBS Newsradio 880’s Lynda Lopez.  Check out “Connect The Dots” on any podcast app.

Also, Bindlestuff Studios has a podcast called the Fobcast, exploring Filipino American immigrant stories.  Check out The Fobcast in any podcast app.

Bridgette Dutta Portman (Episode 75) has a new book out
The Twin Stars, a young adult sci-fi fantasy novel that deals with mental health themes can be bought on amazon: 
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09871ML97

Reg Clay (@Reg_Clay)
Norman Gee (@WhosYrHoosier)

Episode 206: William Bivins

Patricia Silver is an actress who was last in a Word for Word show: The Blues I’m Playing, by Langston Hughes.  It was featured on KALW’s Open Air Program - check out their webpage here:  https://www.kalw.org/show/open-air
Patty talks about her life in Boston, her short stint in Dallas in the late 50's, her work with the SF Mime Troupe and what she's doing these days.

You can reach Patty directly via email: patriciasilver@earthlink.net

SHOWS:

Pericles, Prince of Tyre (SF Shakes)
Sept 4 (live)
Alan Coyne (Episode 29) is in the play
http://www.sfshakes.org

Working (Palo Alto Players)
Sept 17 – Oct 3
Eiko Yamamoto (Episode 120) is in the musical
https://paplayers.org/event/working/

Stories High XXI (Bindlestiff Studios)
Sept 23 – Sept 30
Li-Leng Au (Episode 189), Conrad Panganiban (Episode 16) and Aureen Almario (Episode 156) are producers and facilitators
https://www.bindlestiffstudio.org

Larry – A New Musical (Brava Theatre)
October 2
Melvign Badiola (Episode 89 & 186) is part of the production team
https://www.brava.org/all-events/songsfromlarry

A Winter’s Tale (Cal Shakes)
Sept 1 – Oct 2
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
https://calshakes.org/Winters-Tale/

Cry of Curs – an adaptation of Coriolanus (Tabard Theatre)
Sept 2 – Sept 12 (In Person and Livestream)
Sept 13 – Oct 3 (On Demand)
Jonathan Rhys Williams (Episode 158), Letitia Duarte (Episode 119) 
   and Nick Mandracchia (Episode 43) are in the show
https://tabardtheatre.org

Into The Woods (Berkeley Playhouse)
Nov 19 – Dec 23
Anna Joham (Episode 87) and Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) are in the show
https://tickets.berkeleyplayhouse.org/online/default.asp?menu_id=F59B59D6-DB1F-4A96-8B85-A0D61066D21B

Central Works Script Club
You’ll download and read a play script, send in your questions for the playwright and then listen to an audio interview with the playwright!  Delivered monthly.
www.centralworks.org
vimeo.com/42223001

Barry Graves (Episode 104) has a new podcast out!
The Black Man’s Heart
On Spotify and all your podcast apps

Our wonderful consulting producer Mallory Somera (Episode 151) is producing a podcast for KCBS Radio called Connect The Dots, a weekly news podcast, hosted by WCBS Newsradio 880’s Lynda Lopez.  Check out “Connect The Dots” on any podcast app.

Also, Bindlestuff Studios has a podcast called the Fobcast, exploring Filipino American immigrant stories.  Check out The Fobcast in any podcast app.

Bridgette Dutta Portman (Episode 75) has a new book out
The Twin Stars, a young adult sci-fi fantasy novel that deals with mental health themes can be bought on amazon: 
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09871ML97

Reg Clay (@Reg_Clay)
Norman Gee (@WhosYrHoosier)

Episode 210: Patricia Silver

Peter Abraham is a veteran actor, someone I had the pleasure of working with when we were in Hedda Gabler, way back in 2010.  Peter talks about his involvement with the now defunct Off-Broadway West, his theatre background and what he’s doing today.

SHOWS:

The Baldwin Project (Oakland Public Theatre)
February 26 – Bayfront Theatre, Fort Mason in San Francisco – 6pm
Reg Clay, Shay Angelo Acevedo (Episode 110) and Earlina Somera (Episode 151) are doing readings
Norman Gee is the director
www.baldwincentennialproject.com

150 of Gilbert & Sullivan (Lamplighters Music Theatre)
March 5 and 6, 2pm
https://tickets.mvcpa.com

VietGone (City Lights Theatre)
March 24 – April 24
Jeffrey Lo (Episode 153) wrote the show
https://cltc.org/explore-our-2021-22-season/

Carmen (Opera San Jose)
Feb 12 – 27
Brennah Kemmerly (Episode 203) is in the show
https://www.operasj.org/carmen/

Escape from the Asylum (Central Works)
March 17 – April 17
Alan Coyne (Episode 29) and Jan Zvaifler (Episode 170) are in the show
Gary Graves (Episode 24) is directing the show
http://centralworks.org/escape-from-the-asylum/

DOT (New Conservatory Theatre Center)
March 4 – April 3
Kim Donovan (Episode 80) and Kimberly Ridgeway (Episode 155) is in the show
ShawnJ West (Episodes 146 and 172) is directing the show
https://www.nctcsf.org/21-22-Season/Dot

Dr. Stephanie Johnson (Episode 177) is teaching a class on lighting, hosted by the Oakland Theatre Project.  The Magic Of Lighting – March 7-28 in person
https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/adult-classes

The Hollow (City Lights Theatre)
Feb 3 – March 6, 2022
Ann Yumi Kobori (Episode 192) is in the show
https://cltc.org/explore-our-2021-22-season/

Barry Graves (Episode 104) has a new podcast out!
The Black Man’s Heart
On Spotify and all your podcast apps

Our wonderful consulting producer Mallory Somera (Episode 151) is producing a podcast for KCBS Radio called Connect The Dots, a weekly news podcast, hosted by WCBS Newsradio 880’s Lynda Lopez.  Check out “Connect The Dots” on any podcast app.

Also, Bindlestiff Studios has a podcast called the Fobcast, exploring Filipino American immigrant stories.  Check out The Fobcast in any podcast app.

The Yay (Twitter: @TheYay3)
Reg Clay (@Reg_Clay)
Norman Gee (@WhosYrHoosier)

Episode 224: Peter Abraham

Jake Fong is our next guest on the Yay – he’s a vibrant young actor who played James Baldwin in The Baldwin Centennial Project.  Jake talks about his work in bay area theatre, his training and upbringing and where he sees himself in the future.

You can follow Jacob on Facebook and Instagram (@jking510)

SHOWS:

Sonia Sawkar’s (Episode 204)film Cray wil have its first premier in Los Angeles at XRM Media Studios at Stareable Fest – April 21-23

Turn Right At the Water Buffalo (a book reading at FANHS Museum in Stockton)
April 24
Jeannie Barroga (Episodes 18, 32, 221) is the author
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq_1wfRDJPiGViTd1rhkijA

Fresh Baked Pears (The Pear Theatre)
April 22 & 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episode 155) has a piece in the show
https://www.thepear.org/freshbaked

Pear Slices (The Pear Theatre)
May 6 – 29
Reg Clay is in the show
Anne Yumi Kobori (Episode 192) has two pieces in the show
https://www.thepear.org/season-20

Endlings (Oakland Theatre Project)
April 8 – May 1
Joyce Domanico-Huh (Episode 111) is in the show
https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/endlings

Intimate Apparel (Magic Theatre)
April 1 – April 16
Khary Moye (Episode 45) is in the play
https://www.lhtsf.org/intimateapparel

Steel Magnolias (Sierra Repertory Theatre)
April 14-May 15
Eiko Yamamoto is in the play
https://www.sierrarep.org/events/steel-magnolias/

Coffee Lady (Awesome Theatre)
March 31 – May 5
Anne Yumi Kobori (Episode 192) is in the show
Bridgette Dutta Portman (Episode 75) wrote the piece
https://awesometheatre.org/2022/03/01/coffee-lady/

August: Osage County (San Jose Stage)
March 30 – April 24
Terrance Smith (Episode 102) and Letitia Duarte (Episode 119) is in the show
https://www.thestage.org

VietGone (City Lights Theatre)
March 24 – April 24
Jeffrey Lo (Episode 153) is directing the show
https://cltc.org/explore-our-2021-22-season/

Escape from the Asylum (Central Works)
March 17 – April 17
Alan Coyne (Episode 29) and Jan Zvaifler (Episode 170) are in the show
Gary Graves (Episode 24) is directing the show
http://centralworks.org/escape-from-the-asylum/

Allegiance (Palo Alto Players)
April 22 – May 8
Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the show
https://paplayers.org/event/allegiance/


Barry Graves (Episode 104) has a new podcast out!
The Black Man’s Heart
On Spotify and all your podcast apps

Our wonderful consulting producer Mallory Somera (Episode 151) is producing a podcast for KCBS Radio called Connect The Dots, a weekly news podcast, hosted by WCBS Newsradio 880’s Lynda Lopez.  Check out “Connect The Dots” on any podcast app.

Also, Bindlestiff Studios has a podcast called the Fobcast, exploring Filipino American immigrant stories.  Check out The Fobcast in any podcast app.

The Yay (Twitter: @TheYay3)
Reg Clay (@Reg_Clay)
Norman Gee (@WhosYrHoosier)

Episode 228: Jake Fong

NOTE: On this podcast, we talk a great deal (from the 15 to the 30 minute mark) on the very serious subject of suicides.  If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.

Anyone who has spent any amount of time in the bay area theatre scene knows our next guest, Dorian Lockett – he has graced so many stages and is recently finished with Water By The Spoonful at SF Playhouse.  We’ll get to know Dorian’s origin story, how he got into theatre, what techniques he’s learned and where he sees himself  in the future.

On June 4th, Dorian will be hosting a workshop called Auditioning and Agent Hunting for Voice Actors – check out the link here: https://www.eventcombo.com/e/new-date---auditioning--agent-hunting-for-voice-actors-w-dor-44919?fbclid=IwAR3TTdW0ZWvcAT-De3v0sBDhDOxoMoKMmCO5q3xyxneciLbwGkWmiAtKXKM

You can find out more information on Dorian Locket via a profile of him from the Pulitzer Center's website:  https://pulitzercenter.org/people/dorian-lockett

SHOWS:

Imogen Says Nothing (SF Shakes)
Monday May 9th – 7pm
Maryssa Wanlass (Episode 93) is directing the piece
Part of Bay Area Women’s Theatre Festival 
http://www.sfshakes.org/events/152

The Incrementalist (Aurora Theatre)
Now through May 15
Michael Ashberry (Episode 183) is in the show
Dawn Monique Williams (Episode 112) is directing the show
https://www.auroratheatre.org/index.php

Crowns (Contra Costa Civic Theatre)
April 22 – May 15
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episode 155) is directing the show
https://ccct.org/crowns/

The Paper Dreams of Harry Chin (SF Playhouse)
May 4 – June 18
Jeffrey Lo (Episode 153) is directing the show
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2021-2022-season/the-paper-dreams-of-harry-chin/

Pear Slices (The Pear Theatre)
May 13 – 29
Reg Clay is in the show
Anne Yumi Kobori (Episode 192), Bridgette Dutta-Portman (Episode 75) and Linda Amayo-Hassan (Episode 83) has written for the show
https://www.thepear.org/season-20

Damn Yankees (Tri Vallely Repertory Theatre)
April 30 – May 15
Steven McCloud (Episode 144) is in the show
https://www.trivalleyrep.org/shows/damn-yankees

Inay Dalisay’s World Famous Lechon (Bindlestiff Studios)
June 16-25
Reg Clay (yours truly) is in the show
Rebel Maria (Episode 220) is in the show
Aureen Almario (Episode 156) is directing the show
https://www.bindlestiffstudio.org

Steel Magnolias (Sierra Repertory Theatre)
April 14-May 15
Eiko Yamamoto is in the play
https://www.sierrarep.org/events/steel-magnolias/

Epic Western (Playwright’s Center for San Francisco)
June 12 playreading
Neil Harkins (Episode 222) wrote the play
Gary Graves (Episode 24), Lamont Ridgell (Episode 122) and Evan Held (Episode 226) are in the reading
Available to see via Zoom.  Here is the link to register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_I03SbST7RGivQTm4Tj_Fjg

Barry Graves (Episode 104) has a new podcast out!
The Black Man’s Heart
On Spotify and all your podcast apps

Our wonderful consulting producer Mallory Somera (Episode 151) is producing a podcast for KCBS Radio called Connect The Dots, a weekly news podcast, hosted by WCBS Newsradio 880’s Lynda Lopez.  Check out “Connect The Dots” on any podcast app.

Also, Bindlestiff Studios has a podcast called the Fobcast, exploring Filipino American immigrant stories.  Check out The Fobcast in any podcast app.

The Yay (Twitter: @TheYay3)
Reg Clay (@Reg_Clay)
Norman Gee (@WhosYrHoosier)

Episode 230: Dorian Lockett

Norman is currently in southern California, attending the memorial of his step father – in his place is our consulting producer, Mallory Somera and our very special guest is San Francisco Chronicle theatre reporter Lily Janiak.  It’s a thrill to have her on and Lily shares with us her role as a theatre critic, what has inspired her to be a writer and a glimpse of her background.

Lily Janiak can be reached directly via Facebook.  You can also email her at ljaniak@sfchronicle.com.

SHOWS:

She Loves Me (42nd Street Moon)
June 8 – July 25
Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the show
https://42ndstmoon.org/2023-season-shows/

The Confessions of Lily Dare (New Conservatory Theatre)
May 12 – June 11
Lamont Ridgell (Episodes 122 & 232) is in the show
https://nctcsf.org/event/the-confession-of-lily-dare/

Yerma (Shotgun Players)
May 26 – June 18
Linda Amayo-Hassan (Episode 83) is in the play
Katja Rivera (Episode 168) is directing the show
https://shotgunplayers.org/Online/default.asp

Into the Woods (Mountain Play)
May 21 – June 18
Eiko Yamamoto (Episode 120 & 225) is in the play
https://www.mountainplay.org/shows/

The Dignity Circle (Central Works)
June 24 – July 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 & 251) is in the show
Gary Graves (Episode 24) is directing the show; Tammy Berlin (Episode 208) is doing costumes and Greg Scharpen (Episode 188) is the sound designer
https://centralworks.org/the-dignity-circle/#showtab=details

A Soldier’s Play (Altarena Playhouse)
May 26 – June 25
ShawnJ West (Episode 146) is directing the show
Fred Pitts (Episode 256), Terrance Smith (Episode 102) and Jake Fong (Episode 228) are in the show
https://www.altarena.org/2023-season-announcement/a-soldiers-play

Sunday In The Park with George (Los Altos Stage Company)
June 1 – 25
Brenna Kemmerly (Episode 203) is in the show
https://losaltosstage.org/sunday-in-the-park/

Chinglish (SF Playhouse)
May 4 – June 10
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
Michael Barrett Austin (Episode 133) is in the show
Jeffrey Lo (Episode 153) is directing the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2022-2023-season/chinglish/

Becoming Robin Hood (Berkeley Playhouse)
May 26 – June 25
Paul Plain (Episode 125) is in the show
https://tickets.berkeleyplayhouse.org/Online/default.asp

Crumbs from the Table of Joy (Town Hall Theatre)
June 3 – 24
Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show
https://www.townhalltheatre.com/crumbs

King Lear (Silicon Valley Shakes) – an ALL WOMAN CAST	
July 28 – Sept 1
Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episode 96) is directing the show
https://www.svshakespeare.org/lear


Barry Graves (Episode 104) has a new podcast out!
The Black Man’s Heart
On Spotify and all your podcast apps

Our wonderful consulting producer Mallory Somera (Episode 151) produces two podcasts for KCBS radio: As Prescribed, a weekly conversation with leading medical experts at UCSF Medical Center; and It’s Generational, a deep dive on how each generation looks at things differently. Each episode features subject matters from perspectives of the Boomers, Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z. Check out As Prescribed and It’s Generational on all podcast apps.

Central Works Script Club is a podcast where you download and read a play script and then listen to an audio interview with the playwright.  Delivered semi-annually.  You can find the Central Works Script Club on any podcast app.

Also, Bindlestiff Studios has a podcast called the Fobcast, exploring Filipino American immigrant stories.  Check out The Fobcast in any podcast app.

The Yay (Twitter: @TheYay3)
Reg Clay (@Reg_Clay)
Norman Gee (@WhosYrHoosier)

Episode 260: Lily Janiak

This is the end of the year and it’s altogether fitting that we bring Norman Gee back as our guest for the last Yay of 2024.  We’ll give an assessment of how the year has been, what Norman has set for the future and we’ll give Norman the proper send off and thanks for being a magnificent host of the Yay from 2017-2024.

Norman can be reached directly via Instagram: @whosyrhoosier

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  Charles is also selling men’s hair products on his website https://cbbgroominingproducts.myshopify.com
Hair Gels, Pomades, Shampoos and Conditioners.  Hop online, give the products a try and support minority businesses like my man Charles Blades.  Book an appointment online here: https://www.cbb.hair

Erin Merritt (Episode 191) is a gifted actress and director – creator of Women’s Will, the all-female Shakespeare group that ran from 1998-2009, who is suffering from ALS.  She has been a blessing to the bay area theatre community and this is an opportunity to be a blessing for her.  Her GoFundMe page link is below – please consider giving to help with her medical needs. Even a little bit counts. 

Erin Merritt’s Go Fund Me site: https://gofund.me/e85e9f04

SHOWS:

Thirty-Six (Shotgun Players)
EXTENDED THROUGH JANUARY 4!
Lauren Garcia (Episode 207) is in the show
https://shotgunplayers.org/Online/default.asp

A NOH Christmas (Theatre Yugen)
LAST SHOW Dec 29
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show
https://www.theatreofyugen.org

The Oracle (The Lost Church SF)
Jan 10 & 11
Diana Brown (Episode 242) is in the show
https://thelostchurch.my.salesforce-sites.com/ticket#/

Waitress (SF Playhouse)
Nov 21 – Jan 18, 2025
Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is in the show
Dorian Lockett (Episode 230) is in the show
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2024-2025-season/waitress/

In Love and Warcraft (CityLights Theatre)
Jan 16 – Feb 9, 2025
Miranda Liu (Episode 300) is in the show
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155, 251 & 293) is directing the show
https://cltc.org/event/warcraft/


Barry Graves (Episode 104) has a new podcast out!
The Black Man’s Heart
On Spotify and all your podcast apps

ShawnJ West (Episode 146), along with Elizabeth Jones and Phaedra Tillery-Boughton is a part of a new and exciting theatre podcast called Creatively Shaded.  Check them out on any podcast app.

Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) has a new podcast called A Side / B Side, a podcast that features spirited conversations about superheroes, fantasy and all other cool and nerdy stuff.

Central Works Script Club is a podcast where you download and read a play script and then listen to an audio interview with the playwright.  Delivered semi-annually.  You can find the Central Works Script Club on any podcast app.

Our good friend Aaron Henne is the artistic director of Theatre Dybbuk in LA and they have their podcast – The Dybbokast.  Through a combination of performed readings and interviews with artists and scholars, The Dybbukast brings these creations and their historical contexts to life, all while revealing their relationships to issues still present today

Deborah Cortez (Episode 98 & 238) has a podcast called Let’s Talk About Grief – check it out on all podcast apps.

Also, Bindlestiff Studios has a podcast called the Fobcast, exploring Filipino American immigrant stories.  Check out The Fobcast in any podcast app.

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 311: End of Year Podcast w/Norman Gee

Richard Perez, the artistic director at Town Hall Theatre, is our next guest on The Yay.  I have had wonderful memories performing at Town Hall and it’s an honor to have Richard on.  Jake and I listen as Richard talks about his upbringing, his education at Arizona State University, his leadership at Town Hall and where he sees himself in the future.

Richard can be reached directly via email: Richard.perez@townhalltheatre.com

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  Charles is also selling men’s hair products on his website https://cbbgroominingproducts.myshopify.com
Hair Gels, Pomades, Shampoos and Conditioners.  Hop online, give the products a try and support minority businesses like my man Charles Blades.  Book an appointment online here: https://www.cbb.hair

Erin Merritt (Episode 191) is a gifted actress and director – creator of Women’s Will, the all-female Shakespeare group that ran from 1998-2009, who is suffering from ALS.  She has been a blessing to the bay area theatre community and this is an opportunity to be a blessing for her.  Her GoFundMe page link is below – please consider giving to help with her medical needs. Even a little bit counts. 

Erin Merritt’s Go Fund Me site: https://gofund.me/e85e9f04

SHOWS:

The Him of His Garment (California Theatre Pittsburg)
January 25 – one night only
Reginald Wilkins (Episode 276) is in the show
https://pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com/upcoming-events

A Bright Room Called Day (Madrone Art Bar)
January 22 – one night only
Katherine Park (Episodes 246 and 250) is in the show
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-bright-room-called-day-by-tony-kushner-free-staged-reading-tickets-1135092254489

Waitress (SF Playhouse)
LAST SHOW TONIGHT (Jan 18)
Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is in the show
Dorian Lockett (Episode 230) is in the show
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2024-2025-season/waitress/

J’Accuse (SF Sketchfest)
Jan 29th only
Chuck Lacson (Episode 184) is in the show
https://sfsketchfest.com/schedule-and-tickets/

Daisy (Hillbarn Theatre)
Jan 23 – Feb 9
Terrance Smith (Episode 102) is in the show
https://www.hillbarntheatre.org/daisy/

In Love and Warcraft (CityLights Theatre)
Jan 16 – Feb 9, 2025
Miranda Liu (Episode 300) is in the show
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155, 251 & 293) is directing the show
https://cltc.org/event/warcraft/

Cuckoo Edible Magic (SF BATCO)
Feb 13 – March 8
Julie Kuwabara (Episode 184) is in the show
https://www.sfbatco.org

Froggy (Center Rep)
Feb 9 – March 2
Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) is in the show
https://www.centerrep.org


Barry Graves (Episode 104) has a new podcast out!
The Black Man’s Heart
On Spotify and all your podcast apps

ShawnJ West (Episode 146), along with Elizabeth Jones and Phaedra Tillery-Boughton is a part of a new and exciting theatre podcast called Creatively Shaded.  Check them out on any podcast app.

Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) has a new podcast called A Side / B Side, a podcast that features spirited conversations about superheroes, fantasy and all other cool and nerdy stuff.

Central Works Script Club is a podcast where you download and read a play script and then listen to an audio interview with the playwright.  Delivered semi-annually.  You can find the Central Works Script Club on any podcast app.

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 314: Richard Perez

Nicole Tung is an actress and choreographer and she’s our next guest on a special two episode Yay.  Nicole is the former director and choreographer at South Bay Musical Theatre.  Jake and I learn about Nicole’s upbringing, her work at South Bay Musical Theatre and what she’s doing these days.

Nicole can be reached directly via Instagram: @nicole__tung

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  Charles is also selling men’s hair products on his website https://cbbgroominingproducts.myshopify.com
Hair Gels, Pomades, Shampoos and Conditioners.  Hop online, give the products a try and support minority businesses like my man Charles Blades.  Book an appointment online here: https://www.cbb.hair

Erin Merritt (Episode 191) is a gifted actress and director – creator of Women’s Will, the all-female Shakespeare group that ran from 1998-2009, who is suffering from ALS.  She has been a blessing to the bay area theatre community and this is an opportunity to be a blessing for her.  Her GoFundMe page link is below – please consider giving to help with her medical needs. Even a little bit counts. 

Erin Merritt’s Go Fund Me site: https://gofund.me/e85e9f04

SHOWS:

The Him of His Garment (California Theatre Pittsburg)
January 25 – one night only
Reginald Wilkins (Episode 276) is in the show
https://pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com/upcoming-events

A Bright Room Called Day (Madrone Art Bar)
January 22 – one night only
Katherine Park (Episodes 246 and 250) is in the show
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-bright-room-called-day-by-tony-kushner-free-staged-reading-tickets-1135092254489

J’Accuse (SF Sketchfest)
Jan 29th only
Chuck Lacson (Episode 184) is in the show
https://sfsketchfest.com/schedule-and-tickets/

Daisy (Hillbarn Theatre)
Jan 23 – Feb 9
Terrance Smith (Episode 102) is in the show
https://www.hillbarntheatre.org/daisy/

In Love and Warcraft (CityLights Theatre)
Jan 16 – Feb 9, 2025
Miranda Liu (Episode 300) is in the show
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155, 251 & 293) is directing the show
https://cltc.org/event/warcraft/

Cuckoo Edible Magic (SF BATCO)
Feb 13 – March 8
Julie Kuwabara (Episode 184) is in the show
https://www.sfbatco.org

Froggy (Center Rep)
Feb 9 – March 2
Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) is in the show
https://www.centerrep.org

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Episode 315: Nicole Tung

Our next guest is Ryan Marchand, an actor who has worked with Theatre Yugen, the San Francisco Opera and Handful Players.  Ryan was last seen on stage at Theatre Yugen, doing A Noh Christmas.  Jake and I learn about Ryan’s background, his work in bay area theatre and where he sees himself in the future.

Ryan can be reached directly by Instagram: gone_aw_ry

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  Charles is also selling men’s hair products on his website https://cbbgroominingproducts.myshopify.com
Hair Gels, Pomades, Shampoos and Conditioners.  Hop online, give the products a try and support minority businesses like my man Charles Blades.  Book an appointment online here: https://www.cbb.hair

Erin Merritt (Episode 191) is a gifted actress and director – creator of Women’s Will, the all-female Shakespeare group that ran from 1998-2009, who is suffering from ALS.  She has been a blessing to the bay area theatre community and this is an opportunity to be a blessing for her.  Her GoFundMe page link is below – please consider giving to help with her medical needs. Even a little bit counts. 

Erin Merritt’s Go Fund Me site: https://gofund.me/e85e9f04

SHOWS:

Exotic Deadly (SF Playhouse)
Jan 30 – March 8
Nicole Tung (Episode 314) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2024-2025-season/exotic-deadly-or-the-msg-play/

In Love and Warcraft (CityLights Theatre)
Jan 16 – Feb 9, 2025
Miranda Liu (Episode 300) is in the show
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155, 251 & 293) is directing the show
https://cltc.org/event/warcraft/

Daisy (Hillbarn Theatre)
Jan 23 – Feb 9
Terrance Smith (Episode 102) is in the show
https://www.hillbarntheatre.org/daisy/

Forbidden City (SAG-AFTRA SF-NC Conservatory Screenplay Reading Series)
Feb 7 – one night only
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the reading
Email SF@sagaftra.org for more info

Froggy (Center Rep)
Feb 9 – March 2
Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) is in the show
Jed Parsario (Episodes 63 & 186) is in the show
https://www.centerrep.org

Cuckoo Edible Magic (SF BATCO)
Feb 13 – March 8
Julie Kuwabara (Episode 184) is in the show
https://www.sfbatco.org

Fat Ham (San Francisco Playhouse)
March 20 – April 19
Margo Hall (Episode 166) is directing the show
Khary Moye (Episode 45) is an understudy for the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2024-2025-season/fat-ham/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 316: Ryan Marchand

Allan Samson Manalo is back in the guest chair for The Yay.  When Allan was last with us (Episode 237), we talked about good times and the wonderful history of Bindlestiff Studios.  Today, he talks about his show, In Bituin, the show he has created in loving memory of his late wife Joyce.  We talk about how theatre can help in the act of recovery and healing – and reflection.

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  
Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Erin Merritt (Episode 191) is a gifted actress and director – creator of Women’s Will, the all-female Shakespeare group that ran from 1998-2009, who is suffering from ALS.  She has been a blessing to the bay area theatre community and this is an opportunity to be a blessing for her.  Her GoFundMe page link is below – please consider giving to help with her medical needs. Even a little bit counts. 

Erin Merritt’s Go Fund Me site: https://gofund.me/e85e9f04

SHOWS: 

The Day The Sky Turned Orange (SF BATCO)
Sept 5 – Oct 5
Julius Rea is a part of the writing team
https://www.sfbatco.org/orange?_gl=1*hw20cb*_gcl_au*MTM3MjExODcyMi4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga*MTQ1MDQyNzIxNS4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga_J4D8M8TLG0*czE3NDY4OTE3NDQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NDY4OTE3NDQkajYwJGwwJGgw

Sweet Charity (San Jose Stage)
June 4 – 29
Terrance Smith (Episode 102) and Nick Mandracchia (Episode 43) is in the show
https://www.thestage.org/sweet-charity

Daryo’s All American Diner (Oakland Asian Cultural Center)
May 18th – 2pm free with registration
Jake Fong, Joe Cascasan (Episode 196), and Earlina Somera (Episode 151) are in the reading
Conrad Panganiban (Episode 16) wrote the play and Mallory Somera (Episode 151, 249) is directing the reading
https://oacc.cc/event/daryos-all-american-diner/

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Marin Shakespeare Company)
June 13 – July 13
Adrian Deane (Episodes 82 & 266) is in the show
https://www.marinshakespeare.org/midsummer/

The Book of Will (Ross Valley Players)
May 9 – June 8
Fred Pitts (Episode 256) and Marty Pistone (Episode 261) are in the show
https://www.rossvalleyplayers.com/the-book-of-will/

In Bituin (Bindlestiff Studio)
May 22 – 24
Alan Manalo (Episode 237) wrote, directed and is in the play
https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=282100&fbclid=IwY2xjawKMTg9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFseFk1c1V1WU1sTlFHUWVWAR6CdftUYtTSD_UIM6wG4Kby8SeIzAJ9x2YzzacdCSmB94UboJc3VUT17sRANw_aem_euNrVBGfmx1aBi7kQWYYjQ

The Future That Liberals Want (Eclectic Box SF)
May 2 – 24
Radhika Rao (Episodes 21, 131 and 268) is in the play
https://awesometheatre.org/2025/03/31/the-future-that-liberals-want-or-resume-building-post-apocalypse/

Yellow Face (Shotgun Players)
May 10 – June 8
Alan Coyne (Episodes 29, 233) and Joey Alvarado (Episode 312) is in the show
https://shotgunplayers.org/show/YELLOW-FACE/

Pacific Overtures (Kunoichi Productions at Brava Theatre)
May 30 – June 15
Eiko Moon Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225 is in the show)
https://www.kunoichiproductions.org/pacific-overtures


Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 320: Allan Samson Manalo

On this Memorial Day episode of The Yay, Jake and I welcome Nicolas Logue, actor and fight coordinator – he’s also the associate professor at Winward Community College and Fight Director at Dueling Arts International.  We talk about Nic’s upbringing, how he got into fight coordinating and where he sees himself in the future.

Nic can be reached directly by email: logue@hawaii.edu

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  
Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Erin Merritt (Episode 191) is a gifted actress and director – creator of Women’s Will, the all-female Shakespeare group that ran from 1998-2009, who is suffering from ALS.  She has been a blessing to the bay area theatre community and this is an opportunity to be a blessing for her.  Her GoFundMe page link is below – please consider giving to help with her medical needs. Even a little bit counts. 

Erin Merritt’s Go Fund Me site: https://gofund.me/e85e9f04

SHOWS: 

Oriental or 1001 Ways to Tie Yourself in Knots (Golden Thread)
June 7 & 8 reading
Elizabeth Carter (Episode 159) is directing the reading
Torange Yeghiazarian (Episodes 167 & 286) is the dramaturg
https://goldenthread.org

Sweet Charity (San Jose Stage)
June 4 – 29
Terrance Smith (Episode 102) and Nick Mandracchia (Episode 43) is in the show
https://www.thestage.org/sweet-charity

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Marin Shakespeare Company)
June 13 – July 13
Adrian Deane (Episodes 82 & 266) is in the show
https://www.marinshakespeare.org/midsummer/

The Book of Will (Ross Valley Players)
May 9 – June 8
Fred Pitts (Episode 256) and Marty Pistone (Episode 261) are in the show
https://www.rossvalleyplayers.com/the-book-of-will/

Yellow Face (Shotgun Players)
May 10 – June 8
Alan Coyne (Episodes 29, 233) and Joey Alvarado (Episode 312) is in the show
https://shotgunplayers.org/show/YELLOW-FACE/

Pacific Overtures (Kunoichi Productions at Brava Theatre)
May 30 – June 15
Eiko Moon Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225 is in the show)
https://www.kunoichiproductions.org/pacific-overtures

Lifeline (being performed at the Castillos Winery)
June 27
Miranda Liu (Episode 300) wrote and is acting in the show
https://castilloswinery.com/index.html

Seeds of Time Festival (Marin Shakes)
July 15 – August 3
Ae’Jay Antonis Marquis (Episode 165) is the festival curator
Torange Yeghiazarian has written “Leili and Magnun” to be performed July 26 & 27
Julius Rea (Episodes 227 & 319) has written “Othello.exe” to be performed Aug 2 & 3
https://www.marinshakespeare.org/seeds/

The Day The Sky Turned Orange (SF BATCO)
Sept 5 – Oct 5
Julius Rea is a part of the writing team
https://www.sfbatco.org/orange?_gl=1*hw20cb*_gcl_au*MTM3MjExODcyMi4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga*MTQ1MDQyNzIxNS4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga_J4D8M8TLG0*czE3NDY4OTE3NDQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NDY4OTE3NDQkajYwJGwwJGgw

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 321: Nicolas Logue

Our second half of our double Yay features artistic director and co-founder of Kunoichi Productions, Nick Ishimaru.  We talk about Nick’s upbringing, his studies at Colorado State University, his first stint in the bay area working with Theatre Yugen, and where he sees himself in the future.

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  
Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

Sweat (Palo Alto Players)
Closing Weekend – June 28-29
ShawnJ West (Episode 146) directed the show
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 & 251) is in the show
https://paplayers.org/

Doodler (The Marsh)
May 31 – July 6
A One Man show by John Fisher (Episode 30)
https://themarsh.org/shows_and_events/marshstream/john-fisher-doodler/

Buried Child (The Magic Theatre)
June 30 – a reading
Khary Moye (Episode 45) is in show
Chuck Lacson (Episode 184) is in the show
Andrea Gordon (Episode 255) is directing the show
https://magictheatre.org/calendar/magic-classics

Disruption: A Musical Farce (San Francisco Mime Troupe)
July 4 – August 3
Jed Parsario (Episodes 63 & 186) is in the show
https://www.sfmt.org/

The Last Goat (Central Works)
June 28 – July 27
Gary Graves (Episodes 24 & 227) wrote and directed the play
Jan Zvaifler (Episode 170) is in the show
https://centralworks.org/the-last-goat/

True West (Town Hall Theatre)
June 7 – 28
Linda Amayo Hassan (Episode 83) is in the show
Katja Rivera (Episode 168) is directing the show
David Maier (Episode 301) is the fight choreographer
https://www.townhalltheatre.com/true-west

Sweet Charity (San Jose Stage)
June 4 – 29
Terrance Smith (Episode 102) and Nick Mandracchia (Episode 43) is in the show
https://www.thestage.org/sweet-charity

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Marin Shakespeare Company)
June 13 – July 13
Adrian Deane (Episodes 82 & 266) is in the show
https://www.marinshakespeare.org/midsummer/

Seeds of Time Festival (Marin Shakes)
July 15 – August 3
Ae’Jay Antonis Marquis (Episode 165) is the festival curator
Torange Yeghiazarian has written “Leili and Magnun” to be performed July 26 & 27
Julius Rea (Episodes 227 & 319) has written “Othello.exe” to be performed Aug 2 & 3
https://www.marinshakespeare.org/seeds/

The Day The Sky Turned Orange (SF BATCO)
Sept 5 – Oct 5
Julius Rea is a part of the writing team
https://www.sfbatco.org/orange?_gl=1*hw20cb*_gcl_au*MTM3MjExODcyMi4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga*MTQ1MDQyNzIxNS4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga_J4D8M8TLG0*czE3NDY4OTE3NDQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NDY4OTE3NDQkajYwJGwwJGgw

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)


Episode 325: Nick Ishimaru

We have a rare Sunday Yay, where Jake and I bring on Brittany Sims, an actress who has worked with the Custom Made Theatre, the Oakland Theatre Project and the African American Shakespeare Company.  She talks about her upbringing, her work in bay area theatre and where she sees herself in the future.

Brittany can be contacted directly via Instagram: @iluvbritbrat89

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  
Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Les Blancs (Oakland Theatre Project
Extended through August 3
Brittany Sims (Episode 328) and Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the show
https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/blancs

The Return (Golden Thread)
August 7 – 24
Wynne Chan (Episode 327) is a part of the production company
https://goldenthread.org/productions/the-return/

Man of Tomorrow (part of Free Play Festival)
August 2 (6pm), August 3 (8pm)
August 15 (6pm), August 17 (8pm)
Zoe Chien (Episode 285), Jake & Jessica Fong (Episode 289), Tom Reilly (Episode 40), Tony Daniel (Episode 240), Sylvia Kratins (Episode 141) are in the show
Reg Clay wrote and directed the show; Neil Harkins (Episode 222) is the assistant director
https://playground-sf.org/freeplay/

La Cucaracha (part of Free Play Festival)
August 1 (6pm); August 2 (2pm); August 3 (2pm)
Richard Perez (Episode 314) is directing the show
https://playground-sf.org/freeplay/

Disruption: A Musical Farce (San Francisco Mime Troupe)
July 4 – August 3
Jed Parsario (Episodes 63 & 186) is in the show
https://www.sfmt.org/

The Last Goat (Central Works)
June 28 – July 27
Gary Graves (Episodes 24 & 227) wrote and directed the play
Jan Zvaifler (Episode 170) is in the show
https://centralworks.org/the-last-goat/

Seeds of Time Festival (Marin Shakes)
July 15 – August 3
Ae’Jay Antonis Marquis (Episode 165) is the festival curator
Torange Yeghiazarian has written “Leili and Magnun” to be performed July 26 & 27
Julius Rea (Episodes 227 & 319) has written “Othello.exe” to be performed Aug 2 & 3
https://www.marinshakespeare.org/seeds/

The Day The Sky Turned Orange (SF BATCO)
Sept 5 – Oct 5
Julius Rea is a part of the writing team
https://www.sfbatco.org/orange?_gl=1*hw20cb*_gcl_au*MTM3MjExODcyMi4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga*MTQ1MDQyNzIxNS4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga_J4D8M8TLG0*czE3NDY4OTE3NDQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NDY4OTE3NDQkajYwJGwwJGgw

Dracula: a Comedy of Terror (City Lights Theatre)
Sept 25 – Oct 19
Nick Mandracchia (Episode 43) is in the show
https://cltc.org/event/dracula/

The Wisdom of Eve (Altarena Playhouse)
Oct 24 – Nov 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 and 251) directs the play
https://www.altarena.org/2025-season-announcement/the-wisdom-of-eve-2025/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)


Episode 328: Brittany Sims

Our next guest, Alexis Green, is a former actress who has performed at the Darkroom and has been a member of the former group KT Comedy (also known as Kamikazi Theory) – she has now transitioned into focusing on mental and spiritual health, and she’s created a business called Clarity Journal.  Jake and I talk about Alexis’ life in theatre, her focus on mental health and where she sees herself in the future.

You can find out more about Clarity Journals here: https://clarity-journals.com/
You can reach Alexis directly via her email: alexismgreen@gmail.com

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  
Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Two Trains Running (Lower Bottom Playaz)
Aug 8 – 31
Reg Wilkins (Episode 276) is in the show
Dr. Ayodele Nzinga (Episode 257) is the director
https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/the-lower-bottom-playaz/67be8abea24e940f61dd4990

Mac Both (Eclectic Box SF)
LAST DAY TODAY!
Alan Coyne (Episodes 29 & 233) is in the show
https://www.eclecticboxsf.com/event-calendar

The Return (Golden Thread)
August 7 – 24
Wynne Chan (Episode 327) is a part of the production company
https://goldenthread.org/productions/the-return/

Man of Tomorrow (part of Free Play Festival)
August 17 (8pm)
Zoe Chien (Episode 285), Jake & Jessica Fong (Episode 289), Tom Reilly (Episode 40), Tony Daniel (Episode 240), Sylvia Kratins (Episode 141) are in the show
Reg Clay wrote and directed the show; Neil Harkins (Episode 222) is the assistant director
https://playground-sf.org/freeplay/

The Day The Sky Turned Orange (SF BATCO)
Sept 5 – Oct 5
Julius Rea is a part of the writing team
https://www.sfbatco.org/orange?_gl=1*hw20cb*_gcl_au*MTM3MjExODcyMi4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga*MTQ1MDQyNzIxNS4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga_J4D8M8TLG0*czE3NDY4OTE3NDQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NDY4OTE3NDQkajYwJGwwJGgw

Dracula: a Comedy of Terror (City Lights Theatre)
Sept 25 – Oct 19
Nick Mandracchia (Episode 43) is in the show
https://cltc.org/event/dracula/

The Wisdom of Eve (Altarena Playhouse)
Oct 24 – Nov 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 and 251) directs the play
https://www.altarena.org/2025-season-announcement/the-wisdom-of-eve-2025/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 330: Alexis Green

Maria Marquis is our next guest on The Yay – Maria is a local actress who has worked with the Palo Alto Players, Cutting Ball, the Custom Made Theatre Company and City Lights Theatre.  Jake and I ask about Maria’s upbringing, how the theatre bug bit her and how bay area theatre life is treating her.

Maria can be found on Instagram: @soundslikemarquis

Alexis Green (Episode 330) has a wonderful product that will improve your mental and spiritual health.  It’s the Clarity Journal – it’s a journal, designed from lived experience - a compassionate tool for anyone seeking deeper emotional awareness. With daily check-ins, a mood wheel, and free-writing spaces, Alexis and her company has created a nurturing environment to help you connect with your true self.  As a journal writer myself for many years, I can attest to how soothing it is for me to have a journal – I think it’ll work for you too.  Check out the Clarity Journal at https://clarity-journals.com/.

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  
Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

Two Trains Running (Lower Bottom Playaz)
Aug 8 – 31
Reg Wilkins (Episode 276) is in the show
Dr. Ayodele Nzinga (Episode 257) is the director
https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/the-lower-bottom-playaz/67be8abea24e940f61dd4990

The Return (Golden Thread)
August 7 – 24
Wynne Chan (Episode 327) is a part of the production company
https://goldenthread.org/productions/the-return/

The Day The Sky Turned Orange (SF BATCO)
Sept 5 – Oct 5
Julius Rea is a part of the writing team
https://www.sfbatco.org/orange?_gl=1*hw20cb*_gcl_au*MTM3MjExODcyMi4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga*MTQ1MDQyNzIxNS4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga_J4D8M8TLG0*czE3NDY4OTE3NDQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NDY4OTE3NDQkajYwJGwwJGgw

Dracula: a Comedy of Terror (City Lights Theatre)
Sept 25 – Oct 19
Nick Mandracchia (Episode 43) is in the show
https://cltc.org/event/dracula/

The Wisdom of Eve (Altarena Playhouse)
Oct 24 – Nov 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 and 251) directs the play
https://www.altarena.org/2025-season-announcement/the-wisdom-of-eve-2025/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)


Episode 331: Maria Marquis

Jake and I welcome Julliard graduate and bay area actress Gabriella (Gavi) Goldstein, who was last seen as Queen Elizabeth in Silicon Valley Shakes’ Richard III.  Gavi has also been on television (So Nova, Canapes and Bury ‘Em Deep).  We talk about her upbringing, her education, her views on acting on stage vs on the small screen, and where she sees herself in the future.

You can learn more about Gavi via her website: https://www.gabriella-goldstein.com/
You can reach out to Gavi personally via Instagram: @thegavigoldstein

The Yay is in partnership with Theatre Bay Area, as it brings back the wildly popular Bay Area Theatre Week, a 10-day celebration, from September 12 to the 22nd,  of our vital local theatre community this fall. Audiences are invited to join us for this festival of discounted and free events created by local theatres. This year, Theatre Bay Area is expanding Bay Area Theatre Week offerings to include free events, social mixers, and classes in addition to discounted shows. Throughout the festival, audiences will discover theatre in their neighborhood, support local artists, and enjoy amazing live performances across the Bay. 

To find out information on all of the shows that TBA’s Bay Area Theatre Week is showcasing, click here:  https://members.theatrebayarea.org/batwcalendar

Alexis Green (Episode 330) has a wonderful product that will improve your mental and spiritual health.  It’s the Clarity Journal – it’s a journal, designed from lived experience - a compassionate tool for anyone seeking deeper emotional awareness. With daily check-ins, a mood wheel, and free-writing spaces, Alexis and her company has created a nurturing environment to help you connect with your true self.  As a journal writer myself for many years, I can attest to how soothing it is for me to have a journal – I think it’ll work for you too.  Check out the Clarity Journal at https://clarity-journals.com/.

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Two Trains Running (Lower Bottom Playaz)
LAST WEEK!
Reg Wilkins (Episode 276) is in the show
Dr. Ayodele Nzinga (Episode 257) is the director
https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/the-lower-bottom-playaz/67be8abea24e940f61dd4990

Little Women (TheatreWorks Silicon Valley)
Sept 24 – Oct 12
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
https://theatreworks.org/

The Day The Sky Turned Orange (SF BATCO)
Sept 5 – Oct 5
Julius Rea is a part of the writing team
https://www.sfbatco.org/orange?_gl=1*hw20cb*_gcl_au*MTM3MjExODcyMi4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga*MTQ1MDQyNzIxNS4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga_J4D8M8TLG0*czE3NDY4OTE3NDQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NDY4OTE3NDQkajYwJGwwJGgw

Dracula: a Comedy of Terror (City Lights Theatre)
Sept 25 – Oct 19
Nick Mandracchia (Episode 43) is in the show
https://cltc.org/event/dracula/

The Wisdom of Eve (Altarena Playhouse)
Oct 24 – Nov 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 and 251) directs the play
https://www.altarena.org/2025-season-announcement/the-wisdom-of-eve-2025/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 332: Gavi Goldstein

Surprise, surprise – we have a 2nd Yay today!  Jake and I bring on Lo Ordesta, the co-producer of Stories High XXV, which premiers on September 12 and will go on until the 20th. Lo, the partner of Joe Cascasan (Episode 196), is promoting Stories High XXV – we’ll talk about the legacy of Stories High, Lo’s upbring and her theatre journey.

You can reach Lo directly via her Instagram: @lo_fo_sho

The Yay is in partnership with Theatre Bay Area, as it brings back the wildly popular Bay Area Theatre Week, a 10-day celebration, from September 12 to the 22nd,  of our vital local theatre community this fall. Audiences are invited to join us for this festival of discounted and free events created by local theatres. This year, Theatre Bay Area is expanding Bay Area Theatre Week offerings to include free events, social mixers, and classes in addition to discounted shows. Throughout the festival, audiences will discover theatre in their neighborhood, support local artists, and enjoy amazing live performances across the Bay. 

To find out information on all of the shows that TBA’s Bay Area Theatre Week is showcasing, click here:  https://members.theatrebayarea.org/batwcalendar

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Stories High XXV (Bindlestiff Studios)
Sept 11 (Community Night), Sept 12 – 20
Lo Ordesta (Episode 334) is a co-producer
Joe Cascasan (Episode 196) is one of the directors
https://www.bindlestiffstudio.org/storieshigh25

Indecent (Center Rep)
Sept 9 – 28
Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) is in the show
https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/indecent

Two Gentlemen of Verona (SF Shakes)
Sept 6 – 21
Ely Sonny Orquiza (Episodes 139 & 279) is directing the show
Katja Rivera (Episode 168) is the assistant director
Brennan Pickman-Thoon (Episode 281) is in the show
Maya Herbsman (Episode 145) is the intimacy coordinator
Jen Coogan (Episode 239) is the musical director/sound designer
https://www.sfshakes.org/performance/free-shakes/gentlemen/

McNeal (San Jose Stage)
Sept 24 – Oct 19
Nicole Sarich Tung (Episode 315) is in the show
https://www.thestage.org/mcneal

Little Women (TheatreWorks Silicon Valley)
Sept 24 – Oct 12
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
https://theatreworks.org/

The Day The Sky Turned Orange (SF BATCO)
Sept 5 – Oct 5
Julius Rea is a part of the writing team
https://www.sfbatco.org/orange?_gl=1*hw20cb*_gcl_au*MTM3MjExODcyMi4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga*MTQ1MDQyNzIxNS4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga_J4D8M8TLG0*czE3NDY4OTE3NDQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NDY4OTE3NDQkajYwJGwwJGgw

Dracula: a Comedy of Terror (City Lights Theatre)
Sept 25 – Oct 19
Nick Mandracchia (Episode 43) is in the show
https://cltc.org/event/dracula/

The Wisdom of Eve (Altarena Playhouse)
Oct 24 – Nov 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 and 251) directs the play
https://www.altarena.org/2025-season-announcement/the-wisdom-of-eve-2025/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 334: Lo Ordesta

We have a rare Sunday Yay – Jake and I welcome bay area actress, drama therapist and DJ Champagne Hughes.  Champagne was in Les Blancs at the Oakland Theatre Project (along with Jeunee Simon – Episode 297, and Brittany Sims, Episode 328) earlier this year.  Champagne has her MA in Psychology. Champagne talks about her upbringing in Hayward, her DJ’ing, her acting in the bay area and where she sees herself in the future.

You can learn more about DJ Champagne Hughes via her website: https://www.djchampagne.com/about

You can contact Champagne directly via Instagram: @heydjchampagne and on Tiktok: @champagnehughes

The Yay is in partnership with Theatre Bay Area, as it brings back the wildly popular Bay Area Theatre Week, a 10-day celebration, from September 12 to the 22nd,  of our vital local theatre community this fall. Audiences are invited to join us for this festival of discounted and free events created by local theatres. This year, Theatre Bay Area is expanding Bay Area Theatre Week offerings to include free events, social mixers, and classes in addition to discounted shows. Throughout the festival, audiences will discover theatre in their neighborhood, support local artists, and enjoy amazing live performances across the Bay. 

To find out information on all of the shows that TBA’s Bay Area Theatre Week is showcasing, click here:  https://members.theatrebayarea.org/batwcalendar

Alexis Green (Episode 330) has a wonderful product that will improve your mental and spiritual health.  It’s the Clarity Journal – it’s a journal, designed from lived experience - a compassionate tool for anyone seeking deeper emotional awareness.  Check out the Clarity Journal at https://clarity-journals.com/.

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Stories High XXV (Bindlestiff Studios)
Sept 11 (Community Night), Sept 12 – 20
Lo Ordesta (Episode 334) is a co-producer
Joe Cascasan (Episode 196) is one of the directors
https://www.bindlestiffstudio.org/storieshigh25

Indecent (Center Rep)
Sept 9 – 28
Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) is in the show
https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/indecent

Two Gentlemen of Verona (SF Shakes)
Sept 6 – 21
Ely Sonny Orquiza (Episodes 139 & 279) is directing the show
Katja Rivera (Episode 168) is the assistant director
Brennan Pickman-Thoon (Episode 281) is in the show
Maya Herbsman (Episode 145) is the intimacy coordinator
Jen Coogan (Episode 239) is the musical director/sound designer
https://www.sfshakes.org/performance/free-shakes/gentlemen/

McNeal (San Jose Stage)
Sept 24 – Oct 19
Nicole Sarich Tung (Episode 315) is in the show
https://www.thestage.org/mcneal

Little Women (TheatreWorks Silicon Valley)
Sept 24 – Oct 12
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
https://theatreworks.org/

The Day The Sky Turned Orange (SF BATCO)
Sept 5 – Oct 5
Julius Rea is a part of the writing team
https://www.sfbatco.org/orange?_gl=1*hw20cb*_gcl_au*MTM3MjExODcyMi4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga*MTQ1MDQyNzIxNS4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga_J4D8M8TLG0*czE3NDY4OTE3NDQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NDY4OTE3NDQkajYwJGwwJGgw

The Wisdom of Eve (Altarena Playhouse)
Oct 24 – Nov 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 and 251) directs the play
https://www.altarena.org/2025-season-announcement/the-wisdom-of-eve-2025/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 335: Champagne Hughes

We have another unusual Yay podcast, on a Tuesday!  Jake and I welcome Dean Linnard, who is playing Hamlet at the Oakland Theatre Project – it’s been getting massive reviews on the SF Chronicle (https://www.sfchronicle.com/entertainment/article/oakland-theater-project-hamlet-review-20805880.php), the Marin Independent Journal (https://www.marinij.com/2025/08/27/ambitious-production-of-hamlet-coming-to-san-rafael-theater/), and a glowing review by Lily Janiak, specifically on Dean’s acting (https://www.sfchronicle.com/entertainment/article/dean-linnard-hamlet-20805060.php).  Jake and I talk about Dean’s upbring, his rise in the theatre and where he sees himself in the future.

You can find out more about Dean via his personal website: https://deanlinnard.com

The Yay is in partnership with Theatre Bay Area, as it brings back the wildly popular Bay Area Theatre Week, a 10-day celebration, from September 12 to the 22nd,  of our vital local theatre community this fall. Audiences are invited to join us for this festival of discounted and free events created by local theatres. This year, Theatre Bay Area is expanding Bay Area Theatre Week offerings to include free events, social mixers, and classes in addition to discounted shows. Throughout the festival, audiences will discover theatre in their neighborhood, support local artists, and enjoy amazing live performances across the Bay. 

To find out information on all of the shows that TBA’s Bay Area Theatre Week is showcasing, click here:  https://members.theatrebayarea.org/batwcalendar

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Stories High XXV (Bindlestiff Studios)
Sept 11 (Community Night), Sept 12 – 20
Lo Ordesta (Episode 334) is a co-producer
Joe Cascasan (Episode 196) is one of the directors
https://www.bindlestiffstudio.org/storieshigh25

Indecent (Center Rep)
Sept 9 – 28
Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) is in the show
https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/indecent

Two Gentlemen of Verona (SF Shakes)
Sept 6 – 21
Ely Sonny Orquiza (Episodes 139 & 279) is directing the show
Katja Rivera (Episode 168) is the assistant director
Brennan Pickman-Thoon (Episode 281) is in the show
Maya Herbsman (Episode 145) is the intimacy coordinator
Jen Coogan (Episode 239) is the musical director/sound designer
https://www.sfshakes.org/performance/free-shakes/gentlemen/

McNeal (San Jose Stage)
Sept 24 – Oct 19
Nicole Sarich Tung (Episode 315) is in the show
https://www.thestage.org/mcneal

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 336: Dean Linnard

Jake and I bring on Light/Set designer Colin Johnson as a guest on The Yay.  I’ve worked with Colin when we both worked on Life x 3, back in 2014.  Colin has since been working mostly with Theatre Rhino and last worked on John Fisher’s one act play The Doodler.  We talk about Colin’s upbringing, his life in tech, and what’s next for him.

The Yay is in partnership with Theatre Bay Area, as it brings back the wildly popular Bay Area Theatre Week, a 10-day celebration, from September 12 to the 22nd,  of our vital local theatre community this fall. Audiences are invited to join us for this festival of discounted and free events created by local theatres. This year, Theatre Bay Area is expanding Bay Area Theatre Week offerings to include free events, social mixers, and classes in addition to discounted shows. Throughout the festival, audiences will discover theatre in their neighborhood, support local artists, and enjoy amazing live performances across the Bay. 

To find out information on all of the shows that TBA’s Bay Area Theatre Week is showcasing, click here:  https://members.theatrebayarea.org/batwcalendar

SHOWS: 

Othello (Theatre Rhinoceros)
Sept 26 – 28 (one weekend only)
John Fisher (Episode 30) is directing and is in the show
https://www.therhino.org

oya: un/drowned (Counterpulse Groundworks Festival)
Sept 18 & 19
This is Jeunee Simon’s (Episode 297) one woman show
https://counterpulse.my.salesforce-sites.com/ticket/#/instances/a0FPO000002G91N2AS

Stories High XXV (Bindlestiff Studios)
Sept 11 (Community Night), Sept 12 – 20
Lo Ordesta (Episode 334) is a co-producer
Joe Cascasan (Episode 196) is one of the directors
https://www.bindlestiffstudio.org/storieshigh25

Indecent (Center Rep)
Sept 9 – 28
Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) is in the show
https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/indecent

Two Gentlemen of Verona (SF Shakes)
Sept 6 – 21
Ely Sonny Orquiza (Episodes 139 & 279) is directing the show
Katja Rivera (Episode 168) is the assistant director
Brennan Pickman-Thoon (Episode 281) is in the show
Maya Herbsman (Episode 145) is the intimacy coordinator
Jen Coogan (Episode 239) is the musical director/sound designer
https://www.sfshakes.org/performance/free-shakes/gentlemen/

McNeal (San Jose Stage)
Sept 24 – Oct 19
Nicole Sarich Tung (Episode 315) is in the show
https://www.thestage.org/mcneal

Little Women (TheatreWorks Silicon Valley)
Sept 24 – Oct 12
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
https://theatreworks.org/

The Day The Sky Turned Orange (SF BATCO)
Sept 5 – Oct 5
Julius Rea is a part of the writing team
https://www.sfbatco.org/orange?_gl=1*hw20cb*_gcl_au*MTM3MjExODcyMi4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga*MTQ1MDQyNzIxNS4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga_J4D8M8TLG0*czE3NDY4OTE3NDQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NDY4OTE3NDQkajYwJGwwJGgw

Dracula: a Comedy of Terror (City Lights Theatre)
Sept 25 – Oct 19
Nick Mandracchia (Episode 43) is in the show
https://cltc.org/event/dracula/

The Wisdom of Eve (Altarena Playhouse)
Oct 24 – Nov 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 and 251) directs the play
https://www.altarena.org/2025-season-announcement/the-wisdom-of-eve-2025/

Follow us on Facebook (The Yay Podcast) and on Bluesky.
Instagram: Reg_Clay and Jking510


Episode 337: Colin Johnson

It's been a while but we’re back and our next guest is Vivienne Truong, a local actress who studied at San Jose State, where she also studied Psychology as well as theatre.  Jake and I talk about her upbring, her career in the bay area and where she sees herself in the future.

Vivienne can be contacted directly via Instagram: @viviennasausage

Alexis Green (Episode 330) has a wonderful product that will improve your mental and spiritual health.  It’s the Clarity Journal – it’s a journal, designed from lived experience - a compassionate tool for anyone seeking deeper emotional awareness. With daily check-ins, a mood wheel, and free-writing spaces, Alexis and her company has created a nurturing environment to help you connect with your true self.  As a journal writer myself for many years, I can attest to how soothing it is for me to have a journal – I think it’ll work for you too.  Check out the Clarity Journal at https://clarity-journals.com/.

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  
Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Enough!  Play to End Gun Violence (SF Mime Troupe)
Oct 6 – one day only
Jake & Jessica Fong (Ep 289), Khary Moye (Ep 45), Brian Rivera (Ep 154), Carolyn Doyle (Ep 56), Zoe Chien (Ep 285) and Chuck Lacson (Ep 184) is in the play
Ely Sonny Orquiza (Episodes 139 & 279) is a director for one of the plays
https://www.sfmt.org/event-details/ytp-presents-enough-plays-to-end-gun-violence

McNeal (San Jose Stage)
Sept 24 – Oct 19
Nicole Sarich Tung (Episode 315) is in the show
https://www.thestage.org/mcneal

Little Women (TheatreWorks Silicon Valley)
Sept 24 – Oct 12
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
https://theatreworks.org/

The Day The Sky Turned Orange (SF BATCO)
LAST SHOW TOMORROW
Julius Rea is a part of the writing team
https://www.sfbatco.org/orange?_gl=1*hw20cb*_gcl_au*MTM3MjExODcyMi4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga*MTQ1MDQyNzIxNS4xNzQ2ODkxNzQ0*_ga_J4D8M8TLG0*czE3NDY4OTE3NDQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NDY4OTE3NDQkajYwJGwwJGgw

Dracula: a Comedy of Terror (City Lights Theatre)
Sept 25 – Oct 19
Nick Mandracchia (Episode 43) is in the show
Maria Marquis (Episode 331) is in the show
https://cltc.org/event/dracula/

The Wisdom of Eve (Altarena Playhouse)
Oct 24 – Nov 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 and 251) directs the play
https://www.altarena.org/2025-season-announcement/the-wisdom-of-eve-2025/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)


Episode 338: Vivienne Truong

Our next guest, Adam Torrian, is a bay area actor who has worked with Jake in combat and weapons training.  We talk about Adam’s upbring, his work in the bay area and where he sees himself in the future.

Adam can be reached directly via Instagram: @adamtorrian

Alexis Green (Episode 330) has a wonderful product that will improve your mental and spiritual health.  It’s the Clarity Journal – it’s a journal, designed from lived experience - a compassionate tool for anyone seeking deeper emotional awareness. With daily check-ins, a mood wheel, and free-writing spaces, Alexis and her company has created a nurturing environment to help you connect with your true self.  As a journal writer myself for many years, I can attest to how soothing it is for me to have a journal – I think it’ll work for you too.  Check out the Clarity Journal at https://clarity-journals.com/.

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  
Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Pilgrimage (Golden Thread Productions)
Oct 24 – Nov 9
Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the play
Bridgette Dutta-Portman (Episode 75) is a co-playwright
https://goldenthread.org/productions/pilgrimage/

Dada Teen Musical: The Play (Central Works)
Oct 18 – Nov 16
Alan Coyne (Episode 29) is in the show
Zoe Chien (Episode 285) is in the show
Gary Graves (Episodes 24 & 277) is directing the show
https://centralworks.org/dada-teen-musical-the-play/#showtab=details

Sally & Tom (Marin Theatre Company)
Oct 30 – Nov 23
Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) is in the show
https://purchase.marintheatre.org/EventAvailability?EventId=50001

Noises Off (San Francisco Playhouse)
Sept 25 – Nov 8
Vivienne Truong (Episode 338) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2025-2026-season/noises-off/

McNeal (San Jose Stage)
LAST SHOW TOMORROW
Nicole Sarich Tung (Episode 315) is in the show
https://www.thestage.org/mcneal

Dracula: a Comedy of Terror (City Lights Theatre)
LAST SHOW TOMORROW
Nick Mandracchia (Episode 43) is in the show
Maria Marquis (Episode 331) is in the show
https://cltc.org/event/dracula/

The Wisdom of Eve (Altarena Playhouse)
Oct 24 – Nov 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 and 251) directs the play
https://www.altarena.org/2025-season-announcement/the-wisdom-of-eve-2025/

Into The Woods (SF Playhouse)
Nov 20 – January 17, 2026
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episode 120 & 225) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2025-2026-season/into-the-woods/

Episode 339: Adam Torrian

Chris Smith, our next guest, has a wonderful show – Mine for the Tribe – that’s been showcased at Playground SF as well as other venues.  I had the pleasure of seeing it and I had to have Chris on the show.  Jake and I talk about Chris’ upbringing, what compelled him to tell such a powerful story and where he sees himself in the future.

You can follow Chris and his future projects on via Instagram: @strongeyeproductions

Alexis Green (Episode 330) has a wonderful product that will improve your mental and spiritual health.  It’s the Clarity Journal – it’s a journal, designed from lived experience - a compassionate tool for anyone seeking deeper emotional awareness. With daily check-ins, a mood wheel, and free-writing spaces, Alexis and her company has created a nurturing environment to help you connect with your true self.  As a journal writer myself for many years, I can attest to how soothing it is for me to have a journal – I think it’ll work for you too.  Check out the Clarity Journal at https://clarity-journals.com/.

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  
Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Chicken & Biscuits (African American Shakespeare Company)
Oct 18 – Nov 3
Brittany Sims (Episode 328) is in the show
https://african-americanshakes.org/chicken-biscuits/

Pilgrimage (Golden Thread Productions)
Oct 24 – Nov 9
Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the play
Bridgette Dutta-Portman (Episode 75) is a co-playwright
https://goldenthread.org/productions/pilgrimage/

Dada Teen Musical: The Play (Central Works)
Oct 18 – Nov 16
Alan Coyne (Episode 29) is in the show
Zoe Chien (Episode 285) is in the show
Gary Graves (Episodes 24 & 277) is directing the show
https://centralworks.org/dada-teen-musical-the-play/#showtab=details

Sally & Tom (Marin Theatre Company)
Oct 30 – Nov 23
Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) is in the show
https://purchase.marintheatre.org/EventAvailability?EventId=50001

Noises Off (San Francisco Playhouse)
Sept 25 – Nov 8
Vivienne Truong (Episode 338) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2025-2026-season/noises-off/

The Wisdom of Eve (Altarena Playhouse)
Oct 24 – Nov 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 and 251) directs the play
https://www.altarena.org/2025-season-announcement/the-wisdom-of-eve-2025/

Into The Woods (SF Playhouse)
Nov 20 – January 17, 2026
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episode 120 & 225) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2025-2026-season/into-the-woods/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 340: Chris Smith

Anyone who has been a part of the bay area theatre community in the last 20 years knows Jeffrey Lo – veteran playwright and director, who has worked with San Jose Stage, TheatreWorks, SF Playhouse and so many more companies.  We had him on back in June of 2020 during the COVID pandemic, and we bring him back on, where he talks about A Driving Beat, a show he’s directing at TheatreWorks.

You can find out more about Jeffrey and his expansive career via his website: http://www.jeffreywritesaplay.com/

You can contact Jeffrey directly via Instagram: @theycallmejlo

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

A Driving Beat (TheatreWorks Silicon Valley)
Oct 29 – Nov 23
Jeffrey Lo is directing the show
https://theatreworks.org/mainstage/a-driving-beat-2/

Pilgrimage (Golden Thread Productions)
Oct 24 – Nov 9
Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the play
Bridgette Dutta-Portman (Episode 75) is a co-playwright
https://goldenthread.org/productions/pilgrimage/

The Break-Up – A Latina Queer Torch Song (Theatre Rhinoceros)
Nov 6 – Nov 23
Tina D’elia (Episode 268) wrote and is in the show
https://www.therhino.org

Timon Of Athens (ACT)
Nov 6 – Nov 22
Radhika Rao (Episodes 21, 131 and 268) is in the show
Evan Held (Episode 226) is in the show
https://www.act-sf.org/community/for-students/a-c-t-out-tour/timon-of-athens/

Mother of Exiles (Berkeley Rep)
Nov 14 – Dec 21
Cassidy Jamahl Brown (Episode 59) is in the show
https://www.berkeleyrep.org/shows/mother-of-exiles-sb2l

Sunday in the Park with George (Shotgun Players)
Nov 15 – Dec 30
Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the play
Elizabeth Curtis (Episode 194) is in the play
David Moschler (Episodes 137 and 254) is the musical director
https://shotgunplayers.org

Dada Teen Musical: The Play (Central Works)
Oct 18 – Nov 23
Alan Coyne (Episode 29) is in the show
Zoe Chien (Episode 285) is in the show
Gary Graves (Episodes 24 & 277) is directing the show
https://centralworks.org/dada-teen-musical-the-play/#showtab=details

Cabaret (Oakland Theatre Project)
Nov 21 – Dec 14
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
James Mercer II (Episode 326) is in the show
Dr. Stephanie Johnson (Episode 177) is the lighting designer
David Maier (Episode 301) is the fight coordinator
https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/cabaret

Sally & Tom (Marin Theatre Company)
Oct 30 – Nov 23
Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) is in the show
https://purchase.marintheatre.org/EventAvailability?EventId=50001

Into The Woods (SF Playhouse)
Nov 20 – January 17, 2026
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episode 120 & 225) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2025-2026-season/into-the-woods/

The Wisdom of Eve (Altarena Playhouse)
Oct 24 – Nov 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 and 251) directs the play
https://www.altarena.org/2025-season-announcement/the-wisdom-of-eve-2025/

Ruthless (New Conservatory Theatre Center)
Dec 5 – Jan 11, 2026
Melissa Momboisse (Episode 140) is in the show
https://nctcsf.org/event/ruthless-the-musical/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)


Episode 341: Jeffrey Lo

Taylor Gonzalez, our next guest at The Yay, is the sound engineer at the SF Mime Troupe – he is the former sound engineer at the Berkeley Playhouse.  Jake and I will talk about Taylor’s upbringing, his education and where he sees himself in the future.

You can contact Taylor directly via Instagram: @tgonz510

Alexis Green (Episode 330) has a wonderful product that will improve your mental and spiritual health.  It’s the Clarity Journal – it’s a journal, designed from lived experience - a compassionate tool for anyone seeking deeper emotional awareness. With daily check-ins, a mood wheel, and free-writing spaces, Alexis and her company has created a nurturing environment to help you connect with your true self.  As a journal writer myself for many years, I can attest to how soothing it is for me to have a journal – I think it’ll work for you too.  Check out the Clarity Journal at https://clarity-journals.com/.

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Diwa & Diwata (Bindlestiff Studios)
Fundraiser – Nov 15th only
Aureen Almario (Episode 156) is producing the fundraiser
https://www.bindlestiffstudio.org/new-page-38

The Wisdom of Eve (Altarena Playhouse)
Oct 24 – Nov 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 and 251) directs the play
https://www.altarena.org/2025-season-announcement/the-wisdom-of-eve-2025/

A Driving Beat (TheatreWorks Silicon Valley)
Oct 29 – Nov 23
Jeffrey Lo is directing the show
https://theatreworks.org/mainstage/a-driving-beat-2/

The Break-Up – A Latina Queer Torch Song (Theatre Rhinoceros)
Nov 6 – Nov 23
Tina D’elia (Episode 268) wrote and is in the show
https://www.therhino.org

Timon Of Athens (ACT)
Nov 6 – Nov 22
Radhika Rao (Episodes 21, 131 and 268) is in the show
Evan Held (Episode 226) is in the show
https://www.act-sf.org/community/for-students/a-c-t-out-tour/timon-of-athens/

Mother of Exiles (Berkeley Rep)
Nov 14 – Dec 21
Cassidy Jamahl Brown (Episode 59) is in the show
https://www.berkeleyrep.org/shows/mother-of-exiles-sb2l

Sunday in the Park with George (Shotgun Players)
Nov 15 – Dec 30
Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the play
Elizabeth Curtis (Episode 194) is in the play
David Moschler (Episodes 137 and 254) is the musical director
https://shotgunplayers.org

Dada Teen Musical: The Play (Central Works)
Oct 18 – Nov 23
Alan Coyne (Episode 29) is in the show
Zoe Chien (Episode 285) is in the show
Gary Graves (Episodes 24 & 277) is directing the show
https://centralworks.org/dada-teen-musical-the-play/#showtab=details

Cabaret (Oakland Theatre Project)
Nov 21 – Dec 14
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
James Mercer II (Episode 326) is in the show
Dr. Stephanie Johnson (Episode 177) is the lighting designer
David Maier (Episode 301) is the fight coordinator
https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/cabaret

Sally & Tom (Marin Theatre Company)
Oct 30 – Nov 23
Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) is in the show
https://purchase.marintheatre.org/EventAvailability?EventId=50001

Ruthless (New Conservatory Theatre Center)
Dec 5 – Jan 11, 2026
Melissa Momboisse (Episode 140) is in the show
https://nctcsf.org/event/ruthless-the-musical/

Into The Woods (SF Playhouse)
Nov 20 – January 17, 2026
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episode 120 & 225) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2025-2026-season/into-the-woods/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 342: Taylor Gonzalez

Jake and I welcome actress and singer/songwriter Brittney Mignano, artistic director and creator of Goodfellow Theatre company.  We talk about Brittney’s upbringing, her career in the bay area and where she sees herself in the future.

You can listen to her music on the BuffaloToadMusic Instagram Channel.
You can contact Brittney directly via Instagram: @missbrittybritt

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Snowbound: A Holiday Tale (Town Hall Theatre)
Dec 6 – Dec 20
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 & 251) is co-playwright
Richard Perez (Episode 314) is co-playwright
Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the play
Dr. Stephanie Johnson (Episode 177) is the lighting designer
https://www.townhalltheatre.com/snowbound

The Wisdom of Eve (Altarena Playhouse)
Oct 24 – Nov 23
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 and 251) directs the play
https://www.altarena.org/2025-season-announcement/the-wisdom-of-eve-2025/

A Driving Beat (TheatreWorks Silicon Valley)
Oct 29 – Nov 23
Jeffrey Lo is directing the show
https://theatreworks.org/mainstage/a-driving-beat-2/

The Break-Up – A Latina Queer Torch Song (Theatre Rhinoceros)
Nov 6 – Nov 23
Tina D’elia (Episode 268) wrote and is in the show
https://www.therhino.org

A Christmas Carol (CenterRep)
Dec 10 – Dec 21
Alan Coyne (Episode 29 & 233) is in the show
Jed Parsario (Episode 63 & 186) is in the show
https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/a-christmas-carol

Mother of Exiles (Berkeley Rep)
Nov 14 – Dec 21
Cassidy Jamahl Brown (Episode 59) is in the show
https://www.berkeleyrep.org/shows/mother-of-exiles-sb2l

Sunday in the Park with George (Shotgun Players)
Nov 15 – Dec 30
Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the play
Elizabeth Curtis (Episode 194) is in the play
David Moschler (Episodes 137 and 254) is the musical director
https://shotgunplayers.org

Dada Teen Musical: The Play (Central Works)
Oct 18 – Nov 23
Alan Coyne (Episode 29) is in the show
Zoe Chien (Episode 285) is in the show
Gary Graves (Episodes 24 & 277) is directing the show
https://centralworks.org/dada-teen-musical-the-play/#showtab=details

Cabaret (Oakland Theatre Project)
Nov 21 – Dec 14
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
James Mercer II (Episode 326) is in the show
Dr. Stephanie Johnson (Episode 177) is the lighting designer
David Maier (Episode 301) is the fight coordinator
https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/cabaret

Sally & Tom (Marin Theatre Company)
Oct 30 – Nov 23
Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) is in the show
https://purchase.marintheatre.org/EventAvailability?EventId=50001

Ruthless (New Conservatory Theatre Center)
Dec 5 – Jan 11, 2026
Melissa Momboisse (Episode 140) is in the show
https://nctcsf.org/event/ruthless-the-musical/

Into The Woods (SF Playhouse)
Nov 20 – January 17, 2026
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episode 120 & 225) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2025-2026-season/into-the-woods/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 343: Brittney Mignano

We hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday ;)  We have two guests on The Yay: James Carpenter and Luisa Sermol.  James and Luisa Sermol are with the Actor’s Reading Collective and they just finished their production of Mary Jane (closed Nov 30).  We talk about ARC, James and Luisa’s upbring and their plans for the future.

You can learn more about the Actor’s Reading Collective via their website: https://www.arcstream.org

Alexis Green (Episode 330) has a wonderful product that will improve your mental and spiritual health.  It’s the Clarity Journal – it’s a journal, designed from lived experience - a compassionate tool for anyone seeking deeper emotional awareness. With daily check-ins, a mood wheel, and free-writing spaces, Alexis and her company has created a nurturing environment to help you connect with your true self.  As a journal writer myself for many years, I can attest to how soothing it is for me to have a journal – I think it’ll work for you too.  Check out the Clarity Journal at https://clarity-journals.com/.

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  
Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Snowbound: A Holiday Tale (Town Hall Theatre)
Dec 6 – Dec 20
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 & 251) is co-playwright
Richard Perez (Episode 314) is co-playwright
Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the play
Dr. Stephanie Johnson (Episode 177) is the lighting designer
https://www.townhalltheatre.com/snowbound

A Christmas Carol (CenterRep)
Dec 10 – Dec 21
Alan Coyne (Episode 29 & 233) is in the show
Jed Parsario (Episode 63 & 186) is in the show
https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/a-christmas-carol

Mother of Exiles (Berkeley Rep)
Nov 14 – Dec 21
Cassidy Jamahl Brown (Episode 59) is in the show
https://www.berkeleyrep.org/shows/mother-of-exiles-sb2l

Sunday in the Park with George (Shotgun Players)
Nov 15 – Dec 30
Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the play
Elizabeth Curtis (Episode 194) is in the play
David Moschler (Episodes 137 and 254) is the musical director
https://shotgunplayers.org

Cabaret (Oakland Theatre Project)
Nov 21 – Dec 14
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
James Mercer II (Episode 326) is in the show
Dr. Stephanie Johnson (Episode 177) is the lighting designer
David Maier (Episode 301) is the fight coordinator
https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/cabaret

Ruthless (New Conservatory Theatre Center)
Dec 5 – Jan 11, 2026
Melissa Momboisse (Episode 140) is in the show
https://nctcsf.org/event/ruthless-the-musical/

Into The Woods (SF Playhouse)
Nov 20 – January 17, 2026
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episode 120 & 225) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2025-2026-season/into-the-woods/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)


Episode 344: James Carpenter and Luisa Sermol

Our next guest is Stan Stone, actor and writer – he’s performed with Oui Be Negroes, a black improv/sketch group, and he’s a founding member of Justifiable Dramacide and Out The Box.  He currently works with film company Barewitness.  Jake and I talk about Stan’s upbringing in Philadelphia, how he came to the bay in 1985, what he’s doing now and where he sees himself in the future.

You can learn more about Stan and Barewitness at this website: https://barewitness.com/players/stan-stone/

Alexis Green (Episode 330) has a wonderful product that will improve your mental and spiritual health.  It’s the Clarity Journal – it’s a journal, designed from lived experience - a compassionate tool for anyone seeking deeper emotional awareness. With daily check-ins, a mood wheel, and free-writing spaces, Alexis and her company has created a nurturing environment to help you connect with your true self.  As a journal writer myself for many years, I can attest to how soothing it is for me to have a journal – I think it’ll work for you too.  Check out the Clarity Journal at https://clarity-journals.com/.

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Snowbound: A Holiday Tale (Town Hall Theatre)
Dec 6 – Dec 20
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 & 251) is co-playwright
Richard Perez (Episode 314) is co-playwright
Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the play
Dr. Stephanie Johnson (Episode 177) is the lighting designer
https://www.townhalltheatre.com/snowbound

A Christmas Carol (CenterRep)
Dec 10 – Dec 21
Alan Coyne (Episode 29 & 233) is in the show
Jed Parsario (Episode 63 & 186) is in the show
https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/a-christmas-carol

Mother of Exiles (Berkeley Rep)
Nov 14 – Dec 21
Cassidy Jamahl Brown (Episode 59) is in the show
https://www.berkeleyrep.org/shows/mother-of-exiles-sb2l

Sunday in the Park with George (Shotgun Players)
Nov 15 – Dec 30
Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the play
Elizabeth Curtis (Episode 194) is in the play
David Moschler (Episodes 137 and 254) is the musical director
https://shotgunplayers.org

Cabaret (Oakland Theatre Project)
Nov 21 – Dec 14
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
James Mercer II (Episode 326) is in the show
Dr. Stephanie Johnson (Episode 177) is the lighting designer
David Maier (Episode 301) is the fight coordinator
https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/cabaret

Ruthless (New Conservatory Theatre Center)
Dec 5 – Jan 11, 2026
Melissa Momboisse (Episode 140) is in the show
https://nctcsf.org/event/ruthless-the-musical/

Into The Woods (SF Playhouse)
Nov 20 – January 17, 2026
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episode 120 & 225) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2025-2026-season/into-the-woods/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 345: Stan Stone

Our last guest for the Yay is Jay Bordon – actor and lawyer.  Jay was last seen on stage with Bindlestiff’s Queer as Fuck VI in October.  We talk about their upbringing, what theatre means to them and where they see themselves in the future.

Jay can be contacted directly via Instagram: @thejaybordon

Alexis Green (Episode 330) has a wonderful product that will improve your mental and spiritual health.  It’s the Clarity Journal – it’s a journal, designed from lived experience - a compassionate tool for anyone seeking deeper emotional awareness. With daily check-ins, a mood wheel, and free-writing spaces, Alexis and her company has created a nurturing environment to help you connect with your true self.  As a journal writer myself for many years, I can attest to how soothing it is for me to have a journal – I think it’ll work for you too.  Check out the Clarity Journal at https://clarity-journals.com/.

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  
Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Snowbound: A Holiday Tale (Town Hall Theatre)
Dec 6 – Dec 20
Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 & 251) is co-playwright
Richard Perez (Episode 314) is co-playwright
Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the play
Dr. Stephanie Johnson (Episode 177) is the lighting designer
https://www.townhalltheatre.com/snowbound

A Christmas Carol (CenterRep)
Dec 10 – Dec 21
Alan Coyne (Episode 29 & 233) is in the show
Jed Parsario (Episode 63 & 186) is in the show
https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/a-christmas-carol

Mother of Exiles (Berkeley Rep)
Nov 14 – Dec 21
Cassidy Jamahl Brown (Episode 59) is in the show
https://www.berkeleyrep.org/shows/mother-of-exiles-sb2l

Sunday in the Park with George (Shotgun Players)
Nov 15 – Dec 30
Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the play
Elizabeth Curtis (Episode 194) is in the play
David Moschler (Episodes 137 and 254) is the musical director
https://shotgunplayers.org

Cabaret (Oakland Theatre Project)
Nov 21 – Dec 14
Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is in the show
James Mercer II (Episode 326) is in the show
Dr. Stephanie Johnson (Episode 177) is the lighting designer
David Maier (Episode 301) is the fight coordinator
https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/cabaret

Ruthless (New Conservatory Theatre Center)
Dec 5 – Jan 11, 2026
Melissa Momboisse (Episode 140) is in the show
https://nctcsf.org/event/ruthless-the-musical/

Into The Woods (SF Playhouse)
Nov 20 – January 17, 2026
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episode 120 & 225) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2025-2026-season/into-the-woods/

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Episode 346: Jay Bordon

It’s 2026 – hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and wishing everyone have a great year.  Our first guest for 2026 is Liam Kirk, a stage manager at the New Conservatory Theatre Company – he last stage managed We Are Continuous, back in November.  We talk about his upbringing, the ins and outs of stage managing and where he sees himself in the future.

Liam can be contacted directly via Instagram: @director.liam

Alexis Green (Episode 330) has a wonderful product that will improve your mental and spiritual health.  It’s the Clarity Journal – it’s a journal, designed from lived experience - a compassionate tool for anyone seeking deeper emotional awareness. With daily check-ins, a mood wheel, and free-writing spaces, Alexis and her company has created a nurturing environment to help you connect with your true self.  As a journal writer myself for many years, I can attest to how soothing it is for me to have a journal – I think it’ll work for you too.  Check out the Clarity Journal at https://clarity-journals.com/.

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay!  Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland.  It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.  
Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy.  She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist.  She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner.  Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles.  Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic.  Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS: 

Ruthless (New Conservatory Theatre Center)
Dec 5 – Jan 11, 2026
Melissa Momboisse (Episode 140) is in the show
https://nctcsf.org/event/ruthless-the-musical/

Into The Woods (SF Playhouse)
Nov 20 – January 17, 2026
Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episode 120 & 225) is in the show
https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2025-2026-season/into-the-woods/

After Happy (Central Works)
Feb 28 – March 29
Patricia Milton (Episodes 270 & 303) wrote the play
https://centralworks.org/after-happy/#showtab=details


Barry Graves (Episode 104) has a new podcast out!
The Black Man’s Heart
On Spotify and all your podcast apps

ShawnJ West (Episode 146), along with Elizabeth Jones and Phaedra Tillery-Boughton is a part of a new and exciting theatre podcast called Creatively Shaded.  Check them out on any podcast app.

Will Hammond (Episode 9) has a new podcast called Will Wonders Why – a podcast where he explores his adventures in music, food and seeking out the answers to random thoughts – you can find it exclusively on Spotify.

Adam KuveNiemann (Episode 274) has a new podcast called A Side / B Side, a podcast that features spirited conversations about superheroes, fantasy and all other cool and nerdy stuff.

Central Works Script Club is a podcast where you download and read a play script and then listen to an audio interview with the playwright.  Delivered semi-annually.  You can find the Central Works Script Club on any podcast app.

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Episode 347: Liam Kirk

A podcasts in the bay about life in the theater and the Theater of life.

The Yay - A Bay Area Theatre Podcast

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