#03 - Puzzles and Games in the Musicals of Sondheim, Part Two

Dive deep into how puzzles and games serve as leitmotifs throughout Stephen Sondheim's musical works with host Barry Joseph and co-host Gail Leondar-Wright in this second of two parts. Joined by a panel of Sondheim scholars and enthusiasts, including Doug Reside, Julie Klausner, Ben Rimalower, and Natalie Gerber, they explore key productions such as 'Into the Woods,' 'Putting It Together,' 'Road Show,' and Sondheim's final work, 'Here We Are.' The discussion highlights Sondheim's intricate play with word puzzles, musical motifs, and the structure of his shows. From examining the metaphorical use of poker in 'Road Show' to the surreal, game-like elements of 'Here We Are,' this episode offers a fresh lens through which to appreciate the genius of Sondheim's craft. Make sure to get the book everywhere books are found, ⁠⁠or click here⁠⁠. 00:00 Cold Open 00:47 Exploring Puzzles and Games in Sondheim's Musicals 01:32 Introducing Co-Host Gail Leondar-Wright 01:57 Discussing the First Episode and Gail's Insights 03:08 Guest Introduction: Doug Reside 04:05 Guest Introduction: Julie Klausner 06:34 Guest Introduction: Ben Rimalower 09:09 Guest Introduction: Natalie Gerber 10:04 Diving into 'Into the Woods' 13:57 Sondheim's Influence from Computer Games 21:54 The Puzzle of Sondheim's Wordplay 29:22 Spinning the Sondheim-O-Matic 29:53 Exploring 'Putting It Together' 32:32 Sondheim's Self-Parody and Playfulness 33:36 The Intricacies of 'Putting It Together' 36:50 Exploring 'Road Show' and Its Themes 38:07 The Game of Capitalism in 'Road Show' 43:23 Sondheim's Final Work: 'Here We Are' 44:54 Surrealism and Puzzles in 'Here We Are' 46:50 The Ambiguity of Sondheim's Endings 59:37 Reflections on Sondheim's Legacy Thanks to everyone who contributed behind the scenes to this episode, specifically transcription and text editing by Jenny Westfall, the musical stingers composed by Mateo Chavez Lewis, and the theme song to our podcast with lyrics and music by Colm Molloy, and sung by the one and only Ann Morrison, who created the role of Mary in Merrily We Roll Along. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices