Beltline to Broadway

About Beltline to Broadway

The Beltline to Broadway podcast blends behind-the-scenes insights, fascinating interviews, and stories from the stage. From the vibrant stages of Raleigh, North Carolina's Beltline to the iconic theaters of Broadway, this show celebrates the magic of live performance, the talent that powers it, and the passion that fuels it all.

Publisher

Lauren Van Hemert

Category

arts · music

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

13 Jan 2019

Latest episode

5 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

226 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   5 Oct 2026

   David Henderson on Mental Health, Grief and the Brilliance of Live Theater

   What makes live theater essential in the age of AI and streaming? Lauren Van Hemert sits down with actor and Honest Pint Theatre Company co-founder David Henderson to discuss the state of regional theater, the future of immersive performance, and the irreplaceable power of human connection. They also explore David’s production of Every Brilliant Thing and how the acclaimed play uses humor, hope, and audience participation to open meaningful conversations about mental health, grief, and the small things that make life worth living. David Henderson is a North Carolina-based actor, director, producer, and co-founder of Raleigh’s Honest Pint Theatre Company. A longtime presence in the Triangle theater community, Henderson is known for compelling, character-driven performances in productions including I Am My Own Wife, The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey, and Every Brilliant Thing. Through Honest Pint, he champions intimate, thought-provoking theater that entertains audiences while sparking meaningful conversation and human connection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2. 

   4 Jun 2026

   Tony Awards 2026 Predictions: An Insider's Guide to Broadway's Biggest Night

   In this episode, Lauren Van Hemert sits down with Eric Woodall, Producing Artistic Director of Theatre Raleigh and former Tony Awards voter, for an insider's look at Broadway's biggest night. Drawing on his eight years as a Tony voter, Eric demystifies the nomination and voting process, explains how winners are selected, and shares what really goes on behind the scenes during the final weeks leading up to the Tony Awards. Together, they break down this year's most talked-about plays and musicals, discuss standout performances, and offer predictions for the season's biggest categories. Whether you're a devoted theater fan or simply curious about the awards race, this episode offers thoughtful analysis, insider perspective, and plenty of enthusiasm for the magic of live theater. Eric Woodall is the Producing Artistic Director of Theatre Raleigh, where he has helped establish the company as one of the Southeast's premier professional theater organizations. A nationally respected theater leader, director, and casting professional, Eric spent many years working at the highest levels of the Broadway industry, casting productions in New York and helping shape the careers of countless performers. His extensive experience spans commercial theater, regional theater, and arts leadership, giving him a unique perspective on both the creative and business sides of the industry. Known for his passion for developing artists and creating exceptional theatrical experiences, Eric remains deeply connected to the national theater community while championing the growth of professional theater in North Carolina. Through his work, he continues to foster new talent, celebrate the power of live performance, and connect audiences with world-class storytelling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3. 

   26 Feb 2026

   From Passion to Performance: How MJ's Melvin Gray Jr. Went from Scrubs to the Stage

   How does an aspiring doctor make the leap to the stage and step into the role of the Michael Jackson alternate in the national tour of MJ the Musical? In this episode, we sit down with Melvin Gray Jr., who shares what it takes to embody one of history's most iconic performers. It’s a conversation about pivots, purpose, and what happens when you allow your path to evolve beyond the original plan. About the Guest Melvin Gray Jr. -- Tours: Ain’t Too Proud (Swing/Dance Captain). Regional: Bull Durham, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Songs for a New World, The Scottsboro Boys, Newsies. Film/TV: “Killer Beat”, “Medicating & Healing”, “Hype”. Writer/producer: The Witch’s Book. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who has been a guest on Beltline to Broadway

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• David zum Brunnen
• J Mardrice Henderson
• Melissa VanPelt
• Rhon Saunders
• Erin Sullivan

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

30,855

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

4.8 / 5

20 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 70 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

90

Social presence

0

YouTube

76

Engagement

51

Contact Beltline to Broadway

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.

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