
Welcome to The Play Podcast where we explore the greatest new and classic plays. In each episode we choose a single play to talk about in depth with our expert guest. We discuss the play's origins, its plot, themes, characters, structure and impact. For us the play is the thing. Visit www.theplaypodcast.com for more information, including extra Footnotes on each episode and a complete list and pro... more
| Publishes | Twice monthly | Episodes | 111 | Founded | 6 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | DramaPerforming ArtsFictionArts | |||

Episode 108: The Lady from the Sea by Henrik Ibsen
Host: Douglas Schatz Guests: Professor Kirsten Shepherd, Tzen Sam Welcome to The Play Podcast where we explore the greatest new and classic plays. Each episode we choose a single play to talk about... more
Episode 107: Entertaining Mr Sloane by Joe Orton
Host: Douglas Schatz Guest: Dr Emma Parker Welcome to The Play Podcast where we explore the greatest new and classic plays. Each episode we choose a single play to talk about in depth with our expert... more
Episode 106: End by David Eldridge
Host: Douglas Schatz Guest: David Eldridge Welcome to The Play Podcast where we explore the greatest new and classic plays. Each episode we choose a single play to talk about in depth with our expert guest. We'll ... more
Episode 105: The Weir by Conor McPherson
Host: Douglas Schatz Guest: Conor McPherson Welcome to The Play Podcast where we explore the greatest new and classic plays. Each episode we choose a single play to talk about in depth with our expert guest.... more
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Art and talking about art requires growth and expansion of scope to tell multiple stories. Theater IS actually for everyone. This podcast has yet to seem to realize that. Informative, yes. Informative mainly about plays by white men. If looking for information beyond the 4 black playwrights (only one of them female) or the 7 women playwrights included in the 5+ years of this podcasts’ production, I would consult a library or our friends at Google and Wikipedia to see if they even exist.
The Play Podcast approaches Beckett’s Endgame not as an academic exercise but as a living, breathing meditation on existence. The host’s tone is intimate yet disciplined — deeply respectful of the text without ever lapsing into reverence. What makes this episode remarkable is its clarity of thought and emotional restraint.
The discussion captures what makes Beckett singular: his compassion within austerity, his humor within despair. Rather than reducing Endgame to abstraction, the speakers pati... more
I love listening to this; a chance to listen to current interpretations of wonderful plays and understand the changing relevance of classic plays. Love it!!
Interesting discussions but only 6 (?) of the 100s of plays are by women. (Also please could you improve the sound quality for the guests.)
All these podcasts are carefully researched and very clearly presented. Douglas Schatz also puts a lot of personal thought into each play and you feel you have a much better grasp of each one after hearing them. His guests are the best qualified to discuss each play, being either the author, director or an academic. Warmly recommended.
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #96 | |
Apple Podcasts | #45 | |
Apple Podcasts | #243 | |
Apple Podcasts | #64 | |
Apple Podcasts | #97 | |
Apple Podcasts | #114 |
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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This podcast provides an engaging exploration of new and classic plays, focusing on discussing specific works in depth with expert guests. Episodes delve into the play's origins, plot intricacies, character developments, thematic elements, and overall impact on audiences and society. Notable discussions may include the socio-political contexts surrounding the plays and the modern relevance of the classic theatrical repertoire, making it appealing for both theatre enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. This blend of critical analysis, expert insights, and accessible conversation makes the content suitable for those seeking a deeper understanding of theatrical works and their significance.
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4. This Cultural Life
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The Play Podcast launched 6 years ago and published 111 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on The Play Podcast include:
1. Dr. Emma Parker
2. David Eldridge
3. Dr. Will Tosh
4. Beth Wynstra
5. Beth Steel
6. David Adjmi
7. Mark Rosenblatt
8. Omar Elerian
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.