S2 Ep2283: BIG BROADWAY ENERGY: Stephen Riordan Chats with TJ Venieris

In this episode, host Stephen Riordan sits down with TJ Venieris—a local theater staple who has appeared in over 50 productions across Tampa Bay. Often dubbed the "King of Community Theater," TJ discusses his journey from a shy high school student in Tarpon Springs to a seasoned performer who has found a profound sense of community and family through the arts. The Theater Journey: TJ reflects on his roots in high school drama (Troupe 1134) and his first community theater experience in Fiddler on the Roof at Tarpon Arts. He shares how community theater became his "place to fit in" and how it serves as a vital social outlet for adults. Current Production: TJ is currently starring in the British farce See How They Run at West Coast Players. He plays the "intruder," an escaped communist prisoner. The show is described as a high-energy production filled with physical comedy, door-slamming antics, and non-stop hilarity. Art & Life Skills: As a full-time certified paralegal, TJ credits theater with refining the communication, memorization, and professional soft skills he uses daily in his legal career. He emphasizes that theater is not just about performance, but about developing human connections. Production Details: Show: See How They Run Venue: West Coast Players Run Dates: Now playing through September 6th Tickets: www.wcptheater.com Big Broadway Energy has been nominated for "Best Podcast" in the Creative Loafing "Best of the Bay" awards. Voting is open daily until August 30th—listeners are encouraged to support the show and Radio St. Pete! #BigBroadwayEnergy #stephenriordan #seehowtheyrun #westcoastplayers #TJVenieris