As You Mic It

As You Mic It: In the Spotlight turns its attention to Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy of young love, family conflict, and lives changed in an instant.In this episode, Artistic Director Jason King Jones sits down with Maya Jean and Austin Nedrow, the actors portraying Juliet and Romeo in this summer’s production. Their conversation explores the experience of stepping into two of theatre’s most recognizable roles, the process of building trust and connection as scene partners, and the challenges of bringing fresh life to a story audiences often think they already know.Together, they discuss their first encounters with Shakespeare, the work of finding their own path through these characters, and the emotional and physical demands of performing one of the canon’s most celebrated plays. Along the way, they share stories from rehearsal, reflections on collaboration, and what it means to create a Romeo and Juliet that belongs to this company, this moment, and this audience.Host: Jason King JonesGuests: Maya Jean, Austin NedrowAYMI: Suzanne O'Donnell returns to PSFAYMI: Romeo and Juliet - PrologueRomeo & Juliet at Pennsylvania Shakespeare FestivalMentioned in this episode:Become an Underwriter Today!Contact podcast@pashakespeare.org for more information.Collaboration makes great theatre!Become a supporter, today! https://pashakespeare.org/support/Single Tickets on Sale Now

PA Shakespeare Festival continues its second season of As You Mic It with a conversation that explores Shakespeare as "America's Playwright."In this episode, hosts Jason King Jones, Kim Carson, and Connie Behringer reflect on the role of theatre in the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary and how Shakespeare’s work continues to shape our understanding of democracy, identity, and community.Later in the episode, JKJ sits with author and scholar James Shapiro, whose books Shakespeare in a Divided America and The Playbook examine how the Bard’s voice has echoed through centuries of American history. Together, they consider why Shakespeare still matters to audiences today and what his legacy means in defining the American experience.In A Peek Behind the Curtain, the team shares a behind-the-scenes look at PSF’s casting process that brings the Festival’s Legends and Legacy theme to life.Hosted by: Jason King Jones, Connie Behringer, and Kim CarsonFeaturing: James Shapiro(Producer's Note: This episode was recorded prior to the passing of former Vice President Dick Cheney. In conversation with James Shapiro, Mr. Cheney is referenced in connection to his readership and engagement with Shakespearean scholarship. We’ve chosen to maintain the reference in this episode and extend our respect to Mr. Cheney’s family.)Twelfth Night | Great Performances | PBS@pashakespeare - Follow us on Instagram!Follow us on Facebook!James ShapiroMentioned in this episode:Become an Underwriter Today!Contact podcast@pashakespeare.org for more information.Collaboration makes great theatre!Become a supporter, today! https://pashakespeare.org/support/Join us at the Bard and Beyond Book ClubFor more details, visit pashakespeare.org/bookclubBe a Maker of TheatreSupport PSF: https://pashakespeare.org/support/

As the curtain falls on another unforgettable summer, the hosts Jason King Jones, Kim Carson, and Connie Behringer gather around the mic for a warm, reflective, and joy-filled season wrap-up. From moving performances and behind the stage memories, this episode revisits favorite moments on stage and off, and celebrates the artists and audiences who made it all possible.Whether you joined us in the theater, in the park, or from afar, this conversation is a love letter to the power of live storytelling and the creative community that makes it thrive. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be part of a summer theatre festival, this episode is a backstage pass to the heart of it all.Special Thanks:Much gratitude to Chuck Gloman, Jarret Brown, and all of DeSales University for helping us launch this podcast journey.Stay Connected:Follow As You Mic It and the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival on social media for more behind-the-scenes insights and exciting festival updates.Mentioned in this episode:Prepare Yourself for Some Drama!Get tickets now at pashakespeare.org or by calling our box office at 610.282.9455!Be a Maker of TheatreSupport PSF: https://pashakespeare.org/support/Collaboration makes great theatre!Become a supporter, today! https://pashakespeare.org/support/Prepare Yourself for Some Drama!Get tickets now at pashakespeare.org or by calling our box office at 610.282.9455!Become an Underwriter Today!Contact podcast@pashakespeare.org for more information.