Something Rotten Takes The Stage

Send us Fan Mail Tap battles, rapid-fire jokes, and a cast juggling dozens of characters can sound like chaos. For us, it’s the fun kind of chaos, and it’s exactly what makes Something Rotten such a thrill to bring to 7th Street Theater. We sit down with co-directors Luke and Sarah Hoganrad to talk through the real work behind a big musical comedy, from the first creative conversations to the practical problems that only show up once you’re on your feet in rehearsal. We dig into why this Broadway musical still lands so well, and why its story about two brothers hits even harder when the directors are siblings themselves. Luke and Sarah share how they lead a teen theater cast (ages 14 to 22) through a demanding process that includes long musical numbers, quick scene pacing, and constant character switching. You’ll hear how they think about giving notes, why it’s a great sign when rehearsal shifts from “fix the basics” to “try a stronger acting choice,” and what it looks like to push young performers beyond what they thought they could do. Then we get delightfully specific about production: teaching tap to first-timers while staging full numbers, keeping tap volume from overpowering vocals, and designing a set that preserves open space for big choreography. We also spotlight the wider community theater team making it happen, from music staff and assistant choreo to stage management, scenic build, and costume creations that include more eggs than you’d expect. Subscribe, share this with a theater friend, and leave us a review so more listeners can find the show. https://chinochildrenstheatre.org Find STTS: Steps To The Stage (@stepstothestage) | Instagram Facebook Steps To The Stage (buzzsprout.com) Steps To The Stage - YouTube Please follow on your favorite podcast platform and we appreciate 5 Star ratings and positive reviews!