StageZine joins ‘Bringing Broadway to France’ podcast

NEW YORK—Broadway may call New York home, but its stories have a way of crossing borders.

That idea is at the heart of Cindy Khoury Ashton’s Bringing Broadway to France: One Story at a Time. The podcast explores theater, storytelling and the connections that develop between artists and audiences around the world.

In a recent episode, “Behind the Scenes With Broadway Critic Scott Harrah,” Ms. Khoury Ashton sits down with StageZine founder, editor and theater critic Scott Harrah. Their wide-ranging conversation covers Broadway, theater journalism and the power of storytelling to bring people together.

From Nebraska to New York

Mr. Harrah discusses his journey from Nebraska to New York City. An internship at a popular magazine helped launch his career in journalism.

Later, he and his late husband, David R. Nounou, founded StageZine. Mr. Harrah reflects on those early years and how the publication has evolved over more than 15 years.

The episode also becomes personal. Mr. Harrah shares memories of Mr. Nounou and discusses his connection to Broadway and performing.

Broadway beyond entertainment

However, the conversation goes well beyond theater criticism.

Ms. Khoury Ashton and Mr. Harrah discuss diversity and representation on Broadway. They also explore how theater can address social issues while still entertaining audiences.

In addition, they consider why the same story can resonate differently in the United States, Britain and France. Theater may reflect a particular culture, but its strongest stories often touch on experiences that audiences everywhere understand.

Bringing Broadway to France

Tracy Letts’ August: Osage County offers a fascinating example.

Ms. Khoury Ashton and Mr. Harrah discuss the play’s success in France. They also consider what this distinctly American story reveals about family, culture and our fascination with lives beyond our own borders.

Ultimately, the conversation reflects the larger mission of Bringing Broadway to France. Theater can cross borders, challenge perceptions and create connections. Most importantly, a great story can remind audiences of the experiences we all share.

Listen to “Behind the Scenes With Broadway Critic Scott Harrah” on Bringing Broadway to France.