64. Broadway, Tony awards & personal growth with Leah C. Gardiner

00:00:00: Welcome to the Big Apple Strudel podcast.

00:00:04: Leah is an obi award-winning director based in New York City and a Tony Awards voter.

00:00:09: In this episode, we dive into the world of Broadway And explore what it really takes To make it to the stage.

00:00:16: We talk about creativity Building a career in the arts How Leah navigates creating her own path & business.

00:00:25: She also shares why finding people who truly align with your purpose can make all the difference.

00:00:30: Enjoy this inspiring conversation!

00:00:59: Do you feel like a real New Yorker?

00:01:01: An absolute new yorker.

00:01:04: I just flew in yesterday from Mexico City and late last night, And as i was walking along the streets of mexico city Yesterday...I thought to myself..i miss new yorke Like there's something about- I love mexico City.

00:01:19: It has beautiful vibe Its'a calm vibe.

00:01:23: There is something about the pulse Of New York.

00:01:28: The streets are made, and how the traffic runs.

00:01:31: And how people... Everyone is so kind and loving and crazy!

00:01:37: I miss that kinetic energy So i'm happy to be home.

00:01:42: It's a great town.

00:01:43: You

00:01:43: described it perfectly?

00:01:45: It was the poles of the energy

00:01:47: Yeah..

00:01:48: So you're a director A writer like me.

00:01:56: Yes How did you start this whole journey in New York, and the whole theater industry?

00:02:05: Because it's not an easy industry to be.

00:02:07: It

00:02:07: is a not-an-easy industry.

00:02:09: so when I was a child... I always dreamed of living in New york!

00:02:13: It was ALWAYS my dream And i wanted to go to NYU.

00:02:16: originally My mother thought that school was too big.

00:02:19: Then I thought well how can get there?

00:02:22: So after I went to university in Philadelphia and after University, I moved to London.

00:02:28: And there in London, I worked for a year-and-a-half in the theater.

00:02:32: Then I came back to The States and I applied to Yale University for Drama School and I got in and studied directing really from... If you don't want to run a theater or national theatre through it into country somewhere You come to New York.

00:02:50: I

00:02:52: didn't even know you lived in London.

00:02:53: Yeah, I lived in london for a year and half And made available.

00:02:57: Wow

00:02:58: Okay we have to talk about this later.

00:03:00: like okay great yeah

00:03:02: um and Like so You work then as a director mainly?

00:03:08: and Maybe you can tell us About what is the difference between A Broadway show and an off-Broadway Show.

00:03:16: Great question.

00:03:17: So here In New York new york Is really The hub of theater in America.

00:03:23: We have what's called, we sort of call it the New York theater scene and then we have The Regional Theater Scene meaning like everywhere outside of New York a lot of new yorkers are snobbish about their theater.

00:03:34: Broadway has over forty theaters.

00:03:36: there're forty theaters In this town And Then There Are Over A hundred and fifty Off-Broadway and off off broadway theaters.

00:03:45: And so this is the place.

00:03:48: Like if you want to explore it, love it live it learn it.

00:03:52: This Is The Place To Come.

00:03:54: So with Broadway... With the bigger houses and houses we say in terms of seat sizes They are the largest at eight hundred plus.

00:04:05: I think the smallest might be around four or four fifty?

00:04:08: No Don't quote me on that.

00:04:10: But the smallest is small.

00:04:11: And the idea is that when you're bringing in a Broadway show, You have Broadway producers.

00:04:20: It's all about the money.

00:04:22: The money buys the house and the houses are owned by different companies-the Schubert's, the Niederlanders... ...and then there are couple of other companies That own their houses.. ..And it's the producers who really Are the funders.

00:04:37: they are the ones Who sort of compensate this making Of production The musical, a straight play.

00:04:45: A play with music.

00:04:47: and that is really the heart of how Broadway works because we are capitalist country money driven

00:04:57: so like an off-Broadway show would be sure there isn't smaller theater has less money in back to push it which by way its not reason Better or worse

00:05:11: exactly

00:05:11: off Broadway shows that were incredible.

00:05:15: agreed

00:05:17: Right.

00:05:17: Yeah, I mean.

00:05:18: and Now a lot of what happens?

00:05:21: Off-off off end off the dream.

00:05:25: The goal is to get your show To broadway.

00:05:28: for example there's a show right now That was on Broadway that has called Titanic And it's.

00:05:34: it's like farce based on the Titanic, you know?

00:05:39: The sink shipping.

00:05:40: That started I believe off Broadway moved to Off-Broadway and now it's on Broadway.

00:05:47: It's a rare situation but when it happens is celebrated joyously.

00:05:52: We are so proud of people who create it we're proud of the producers Who fund it, support it And most importantly audiences come see because they change lives.

00:06:06: It's so.

00:06:07: it means that the show did well and more people started to back it, So it could become bigger.

00:06:15: And into a bigger theater?

00:06:16: That's

00:06:16: exactly right.

00:06:18: The big of the theatre than More Than Money.

00:06:20: I mean that's the hope.

00:06:21: the ticket prices are higher and then the longer they run.

00:06:24: A lot of times off-Broadway and Off-Off Broadway theaters have limited Run but broad way has an extended run usually unless its called a Limited Run.

00:06:36: Yeah, okay.

00:06:37: So get on a flight and come over here to see some New York theater and feel the energy.

00:06:43: it's so amazing!

00:06:44: I have to say...so i did musical performing school in Germany worked at the theatre.

00:06:51: when came to new york saw my first time of Broadway show was blown away because thought level quality everything is crazy.

00:07:04: And I think, I realize now living here why it's because arts singing dancing is ingrained into the school system.

00:07:13: That's right that's correct

00:07:15: and i think that's The main difference.

00:07:17: you get nurtured early on and It's so competitive.

00:07:22: That Is exactly Right?

00:07:23: We have over four hundred and twenty BFA and MFA.

00:07:27: so bachelors of fine Arts Masters of Fine Arts programs in the country Four Hundred and Twenty They're forty one Broadway houses.

00:07:35: So imagine how few people can actually break through and get to Broadway.

00:07:43: It's not everyone's dream, and that's okay.

00:07:46: But when it's your dream?

00:07:48: It takes real work because it is incredibly competitive.

00:07:52: Yeah, I mean.

00:07:55: so What do you think does it take for someone to really make it on Broadway?

00:08:02: Because I'm sometimes wondering, of course its talent.

00:08:05: But in the end there are a lot of virially talented people who could do it.

00:08:11: but what do you thing?

00:08:13: is this difference

00:08:14: ?

00:08:14: I think after all these years working in industry grit and politics.

00:08:24: Okay that i need to taken.

00:08:28: Wow.

00:08:29: Yeah,

00:08:30: okay yeah I get

00:08:32: it It's political and so you want to make... You have a lot of allies And you wanna make sure that keep your allies in not just backpockets but front pockets.

00:08:46: I can

00:08:46: see that

00:08:47: You need allies on speed dialing this industry.

00:08:51: This is funny because for me as creative person I hate the networking.

00:09:01: So

00:09:01: do we, Suzy!

00:09:02: We all do.

00:09:03: No one likes it.

00:09:05: It's terrible...it's horrible..It's painful

00:09:09: But you have to i guess know how To Do it.

00:09:12: You Have to use it.

00:09:14: Okay Yeah Exactly Right?

00:09:17: Its like-we both Know it.

00:09:18: If you had a job with someone and it worked out well And you liked working With The person You would try Get that Person on next project Again Because YOU KNOW

00:09:28: And you trust them and the producers, trust you.

00:09:31: And they trust those creatives.

00:09:33: I mean often time You will have a producer say because at the end of the day The proofs the producers is the big boss Because there are other ones with money?

00:09:41: And you will the producer Will Say i Have A new Designer.

00:09:44: That i think Would be really great for this show.

00:09:46: would you Consider interviewing With Them?

00:09:50: so you want to interview several different people People that you've also worked with in the past, but the new people that your producers are suggesting to you.

00:09:59: So it's like any job really when you're building a team?

00:10:02: You interview people, you build your team and ultimately In this case The play or the musical starts with one thing And It's the idea.

00:10:12: is the idea That they think that the writer has that the writers of the create the collaborators have?

00:10:19: No, sometimes you understand the idea.

00:10:22: Sometimes You just start writing and then The director is called in And that Director works with a writer to figure out this story?

00:10:30: And Then we go from there To the producer will hire.

00:10:34: sometimes the director From the writer or the writer Will ask for the director and then the rest of the creative team has brought In.

00:10:41: so It's A tricky.

00:10:43: it's tricky Because you need all Of the pieces of the puzzle to fit together in order for the magic to really work so that you don't have to play politics all the time.

00:10:57: I just thought about this when you said it, The Magic You know?

00:11:01: There's a click and there is a magic happens And then...I mean..it's

00:11:07: amazing.

00:11:10: If i think of one show maybe That had really all these magical dust.

00:11:18: It may be Hamilton also.

00:11:20: Hamilton had magical dust, and that's why it's been on Broadway since twenty fifteen.

00:11:24: Yeah

00:11:26: by the way I looked up so because The interesting thing is that some shows perform well in broadway And not in Germany and vice versa and Hamilton did Not do Well in German.

00:11:37: Oh

00:11:38: no Do you know why?

00:11:39: Maybe Because It was yeah What do You think?

00:11:42: So its only ran for a year.

00:11:45: It Was very hyped but i Think In the end of the day a German doesn't understand or maybe like it's so invested in the history of

00:11:56: America.

00:11:56: I get that, because its

00:11:58: all about it right?

00:12:00: The story itself is amazing and emotional but It still intricate fast.

00:12:05: you have to listen Right And be interested.

00:12:08: what

00:12:09: happened In the past?

00:12:11: That was hard for audience

00:12:13: I get it.

00:12:14: Now, I totally understand now that you're saying that i can completely Understand.

00:12:18: and so interesting because as an American?

00:12:20: I never would have caught That.

00:12:22: I wouldn't imagine that this story Because of the vibrancy Of The musical how It was put together And i'm really thinking less is a creative now Less than american now more As a creative.

00:12:32: there's something Really energetic and in just Enlightening about that production.

00:12:38: but yeah, that's the production As I understand it, Germans love story.

00:12:45: Yes!

00:12:45: And they love sort of the intricacies in how stories work.

00:12:49: so if this isn't their story... ...I get

00:12:51: it.

00:12:51: Yeah It's also.

00:12:53: other shows were like Tarzan Disney-Tarzan Didn't Do Well on Broadway Did Amazing In Germany

00:13:00: Wow!

00:13:01: and i don' know you even remember this Dance Of The Vampire?

00:13:07: I

00:13:09: think it didn't do anything really.

00:13:11: It opened and closed after fifty-two shows on Broadway, And in Germany it ran for six and a half years.

00:13:20: Why?

00:13:23: Because the dance of The Vampire Musical is very big orchestra dramatic dark a little bit.

00:13:32: You know, I think we like it sometimes also darkness and you know so.

00:13:38: but on the other hand if look at Tarzan that's not dark more Disney cheesy.

00:13:45: So It is really interesting to me.

00:13:48: shows work well in different cultures And its'nt one size fits all thing.

00:13:56: Not every story works

00:13:58: Right.

00:13:59: That's so fascinating, So think about how the producers have to navigate that.

00:14:05: The risk you take To bring a show in

00:14:08: Yeah...to

00:14:09: different country To tour it?

00:14:11: That is a risk I understand But i hadn't really thought of this way.

00:14:15: Thankyou for sharing

00:14:17: with us.

00:14:18: It was interesting

00:14:20: Totally.

00:14:23: What do u think?

00:14:25: what does it take?

00:14:28: eight shows a week.

00:14:29: I mean, it's crazy right?

00:14:31: And we talked about this.

00:14:33: that because i asked you how does it work?

00:14:36: and You said one sentence to me and I was like of course and you said your vessel just will get used to It

00:14:46: absolutely.

00:14:48: the endurance you Get use to it.

00:14:51: Your body gets used to it your mind when you wake up every day there is routine and you must stick to the routine when you wake up at the same time.

00:15:03: What your, if have a smoothie... If go straight to gym or massage therapist?

00:15:10: everything has to be exact because that's conditioning that vessel needs.

00:15:16: it is used in order sustain.

00:15:19: We are talking about two-and-a half hours sometimes two hours of dancing, sometimes four hours a day because of matinee days twice a week Saturdays and Wednesdays.

00:15:29: It's a lot on the body.

00:15:31: your vocals right.

00:15:33: if you're in a musical and needing to sing keeping them protected getting your massages vocal massage is seeing your vocal teacher.

00:15:43: these things are.

00:15:45: they're imperative.

00:15:47: it's like You know, when you go if your lumberjack and you go to saw a tree down.

00:15:57: If yours is rusty it won't work.

00:16:01: That's the same with The Human Body When It Comes To Working On Shows And even for directors because of our minds we need to be sharp.

00:16:09: its really important.

00:16:11: Yeah It's also sometimes you hear that some of the main characters are during the day on vocal rest, which means they will not talk during the date to let the vocal cords heal.

00:16:26: So I think somebody who is not in that industry doesn't really understand what it really takes and the sacrifices you have to take... ...to stand on this stage.

00:16:40: Susie!

00:16:43: Sacrifice.

00:16:44: Yeah,

00:16:45: yeah it's so hard

00:16:48: and you have to be willing To do this?

00:16:51: You have to Be willing to sacrifice all of that stuff for your routine And Your stage.

00:16:57: but I mean we both know This right in the end Of The day you live For It.

00:17:00: That's That's

00:17:01: it.

00:17:01: you're.

00:17:02: Exactly

00:17:02: That's what you breathe that What Makes Yourselves Bubbled.

00:17:06: Yes

00:17:07: yes i Know So Marvelous.

00:17:10: And then when it's over and you're a performer, and your exuding that energy the audience feels it.

00:17:16: Yes You know?

00:17:18: Like sometimes performers they do really intense scenes Then get off stage.

00:17:22: They are crying.

00:17:24: The audiences cry.

00:17:27: That is beautiful collective energy Changing world.

00:17:32: It's exquisite.

00:17:33: Yeah

00:17:34: Also like every time have certain quality right

00:17:39: every time.

00:17:41: It has to be a certain level that needs to be there.

00:17:45: and yeah, it's I don't know...it is so fascinating!

00:17:51: Everytime i still go into the show, everytime afterwards im like ugh this is the best.

00:17:59: Whether the show was good or bad its just magic because

00:18:04: you all were great by standing up there doing your work.

00:18:09: It takes such courage, but it's amazing.

00:18:16: And one thing I learned that I thought was very interesting is a few years back something changed for the cast where if you originate a role and you rehearse your creativity flows into it then cast members who originated, get royalties right in the future from creating that role.

00:18:47: Did I say that?

00:18:48: That is correct.

00:18:49: you nailed it and it was a show.

00:18:51: German's favorite Hamilton.

00:18:54: yes

00:18:58: It was The Cast of Hamilton.

00:19:00: yeah really really unusual And brave for them to come forward because writers Received royalties, they've received royalties for years.

00:19:12: Directors have also now receive royalties but several you know I'm not sure how many years before writers and sorry afterwriters and now actors.

00:19:25: the complicated part of it is that It is a collaboration right?

00:19:29: The writer writes the role The director has the idea for the role And How They See the Role Playing out in the production And then the actor embodies not only their ideas, but the presumed ideas of The Writer and the ideas of the director.

00:19:49: So in the end right actors really won.

00:19:52: this was a huge win for them because they came forward and said sure the Director has an idea about what I'm making?

00:20:01: The writer clearly had an idea Right?

00:20:08: You can tell me to the ingredients for chocolate ice cream.

00:20:12: Yes, and I could make that but my chocolate ice-cream won't be your chocolate Ice Cream.

00:20:18: That's a very good way to say it And It was amazing for them because The show is so successful!

00:20:24: It runs For such A long time over ten years now i think also internationally.

00:20:31: you know like I think this is, i was so amazed by this because it's the same like you said right if your a singer or musician.

00:20:44: You get royalties all of life from one song that you created and yeah thats really great.

00:20:52: but now do u know?

00:20:53: Is this enough for every show?

00:20:55: Generally?

00:20:56: I don't know for sure.

00:20:57: You do not, okay

00:20:59: Unfortunately i'm not in that union and the directors and choreographers Union.

00:21:03: so Yeah...I should know That information but my guess would be yes especially For Broadway original productions or at least Actors now have precedent to put it into their contracts And agents can fight for them.

00:21:20: How will you say is industry doing

00:21:22: Now great?

00:21:24: Yeah, it's really great.

00:21:26: I mean there we have a number of new shows that have opened on Broadway and There are some that are closing.

00:21:33: We're only opening a few this summer which we often up more shows opening.

00:21:40: But the energy is amazing.

00:21:42: people are coming The seats are filling again since COVID Since twenty nineteen were not seeing the exact numbers but we're very close.

00:21:50: Okay And that's really be That's That's the indicator.

00:21:56: So COVID for us is the indicator before and after COVID, so we're close.

00:22:01: We're close.

00:22:03: okay great oh that's good to hear.

00:22:05: yeah I'll show

00:22:09: you It was hard when a show closes You know there were shows recently that closed very quickly And then it doesn't click with audience

00:22:24: I know.

00:22:24: It's heartbreaking, it's heartbreaking yeah but that's the risk!

00:22:32: Sacrifice Risk Courage.

00:22:35: And now what is coming up?

00:22:38: Is The Tony Awards Yes...the

00:22:40: best time

00:22:40: of year?

00:22:43: It's THE BEST TIME OF YEAR SUSIE IT'S SO FUN!

00:22:47: Can i show

00:22:48: you?

00:22:49: So..i

00:22:50: get to see....I'm a tony voter.

00:22:52: I get to see all of the shows, right?

00:22:54: These are from the last two years.

00:22:56: And just give you an idea what a playbill looks like.

00:23:00: here's A Playbill You Can See.

00:23:02: This is From Rocky Horror Picture Show that Sam Pinkleton directed.

00:23:06: That Is Absolutely Brilliant Very Excited!

00:23:11: For this show and All Of Them.

00:23:12: i can't be biased because im a voter but I'm just putting that back.

00:23:17: But it's a really fun time because you get to see every single one of those shows as a Tony voter.

00:23:24: That is the best, by the way when we talked about this and you said... You know?

00:23:27: Because i was like okay Lea should be go see your show!

00:23:29: And you were like

00:23:30: meh

00:23:32: no cause im gonna go look at in totally different view and ive been like wow

00:23:39: good for you.

00:23:41: So first we need talk.

00:23:44: For anybody not knowing, what are the Tony Awards?

00:23:48: So.

00:23:49: The Tony Awards Are if you know anything about theater in England London Theater.

00:23:55: they're like the Olivier's Like London is sort of their hub for theatre In London.

00:24:02: New York Is a Hub for Theatre.

00:24:05: here Each city has and each country basically Has these awards that celebrate the shows.

00:24:14: In our case, it's the shows that happen on Broadway and I'm as i understand it Germany doesn't necessarily have a hub per se right because your state subsidized in that way.

00:24:24: yeah

00:24:25: exactly but here's the hub and there are forty houses and if any season is lucky enough all forty shows uh houses will be filled with shows.

00:24:35: so my job and seven hundred ninety nine other people that's a lot of eight hundred people vote.

00:24:46: I didn't know that...

00:24:47: Eight hundred people, who come from the design unions?

00:24:51: Who comes from the technical union's producers?

00:24:55: The stage directors and choreographers' Union my union, the actors equity union that Brooke Shields is president of?

00:25:02: there are a number of people throughout the industry who vote actors.

00:25:09: I mean, it's just people from the regions come in and vote.

00:25:12: so there are lots of us And It's a huge honor that one of the biggest honors.

00:25:17: when you're asked to be a Tony voter then You sort of know?

00:25:19: You've really arrived in the industry.

00:25:23: Yeah So that means you go and see every show and you have to sit there and look through at different perspective because There's so many categories.

00:25:36: That also, you know there is design like stage design and costumes choreography lighting And You need to think about all those categories While watching the show.

00:25:50: while

00:25:51: watching this show that's right?

00:25:52: You watch everything.

00:25:53: The acting it's all they're.

00:25:55: yes All of it how people are moving onstage the music the composition the musical direction everything else you named, and even how the clothes... The costumes work in relationship to the sets.

00:26:12: That has a lot to do with direction sort of how overall family is built How things are put together.

00:26:20: It's fascinating experience because I can't necessarily go And just there's a performer brilliant performer And yet I'm in New York City, so you may hear the sirens from The Fire Talks.

00:26:38: Sorry, apologize... But we really are feeling it now guys!

00:26:44: This is what we live for and love.

00:26:49: when that information makes us forget

00:26:55: It's so New York.

00:26:59: So anyway, it's like every single piece of it and the pieces of a puzzle.

00:27:05: you have to really study Every Single Piece And then how its all put together?

00:27:09: Its SO fun!

00:27:11: And afterwards do you kind of write down for yourself?

00:27:14: So

00:27:15: let me show.

00:27:16: if I can grab a playbill I can show you what I tend to do.

00:27:20: Let me see if i did it in this playbill.

00:27:22: not everyone does it the way, but What?

00:27:26: Do is?

00:27:27: i will circle The name of Someone that i like because on the inside Of a play bill as You See here hope i can Show you.

00:27:36: well yeah shows yep and It has all the designers names And the directors Names Yeah and All the producers at the top.

00:27:44: so what i Like To do Is Just Circle all of the people, if the music is great I'll circle the composer's names.

00:27:51: So then when it comes time for voting because i've seen a show last summer and I can't necessarily remember...I have it documented this way.

00:27:59: so this is the best part of the voting is going back and flipping through every single playbill and being reminded of that magical moment of seeing that show.

00:28:10: Yeah.

00:28:11: I mean, the timing is important for shows right?

00:28:14: That's why they try to open certain shows at a certain time so that you get into the voting process and then um what does it... So also okay there's a big event.

00:28:26: Then there will be awards There would be nominations ,there will be winners And It's very exciting For people just to be nominated because that already puts You on the spotlight like shows that you are good in what do.

00:28:42: And then, What does it do for someone who works in the industry if you get a Tony Award?

00:28:48: Well even If You Get Nominated there's an honor There and if your nominated first For Your Next Show we'll get paid more money.

00:28:57: Usually In Your Contracts if you're nominated for Tony they will give you a bonus.

00:29:02: And then if you win a Tony, You get an extra bonus.

00:29:06: and not only do you got an extra Bonus but Then you Get other bonuses.

00:29:10: You get Other producers who are interested in your work.

00:29:13: it really just launches Your career In A way that puts you front-and-center.

00:29:20: Yeah,

00:29:21: can also maybe move more into like TV act or movies.

00:29:26: Especially for actors?

00:29:28: Yes.

00:29:28: Actors right?

00:29:29: yeah it's a big deal and since the industry here in TV & Film has shut down we've had television and film actors moving into acting on Broadway.

00:29:41: So now people really want an egot, right?

00:29:44: Where they have an Emmy ,an obi a Tony And a Grammy like this is the big thing.

00:29:50: Now for for actors who are producers and you know It's it's exciting these awards mean something to us here.

00:30:00: Yeah, and it's so true what you said because I'm sometimes a little bit shocked how A-list movie actors are all of the sudden coming a lot to New York City, do stage plays.

00:30:14: And it also obviously draws in the audience you know?

00:30:19: It's hard to get tickets!

00:30:20: And they're so expensive!

00:30:25: But then

00:30:25: there is nothing like seeing an actor that you've seen on television for twenty years or film life Because it's hard for an actor to do live theater.

00:30:36: Eight shows a week, so it's exciting!

00:30:40: That has a special thing totally like if you get um uh a seat in the theatre with someone that you know from tv... It hits a little different..

00:30:50: It hits so differently.... It's just John Lithgow I don't Pretty, pretty famous actor here.

00:30:59: And he's playing a play that originated in London and the role I think to play.

00:31:05: if i'm not mistaken it is called Giant.

00:31:07: He was big guy!

00:31:10: To see him embody this role and know the name of the play... It just perfected.

00:31:16: so exciting.

00:31:17: Just give you an example of that.

00:31:21: The good thing also for Tony Wolder.

00:31:25: go, right?

00:31:26: You don't need to like get a ticket or you just...

00:31:29: Oh no.

00:31:30: No they're free.

00:31:31: That's amazing!

00:31:34: Yeah

00:31:35: but I remember when Hamilton was becoming a big thing and my husband tried to get tickets and stuff And it was so hard.

00:31:43: It was such a big deal To even GET A TICKET!

00:31:48: And i saw three times for free.

00:31:50: HALLL!

00:31:51: I know that is the difference But

00:31:55: that's good for, great.

00:31:58: It's endurance.

00:31:59: you stay in the industry long enough right?

00:32:01: You're then rewarded.

00:32:03: so yeah

00:32:04: um So overall just also What do you think about the industry?

00:32:10: because it's a difficult industry to be and its hard Its...you know he not always get rewarded For what you put in.

00:32:19: how Do you view For you from your perspective, how

00:32:24: is it?

00:32:25: Yeah.

00:32:26: I think that its i would have never chosen any Any other first path.

00:32:35: And I say first path because I am shifting.

00:32:38: yeah not shifting adding Adding a new career which is really exciting but to work in the theater and To sort of know that you are fulfilling your life's purpose.

00:32:55: And I always knew, That i was going into the theater...I come from a family of people in medicine doctors and nurses.

00:33:03: You know when I said to them..i want to work In The Theater they kind Of looked at me & their heads Twisted & They became apoplectic.

00:33:11: Its like what?

00:33:12: You have perfect path To Medicine!

00:33:16: But they also understood that I was an artist at the heart of who I was, and then lived in...I was guided by my intuition from a very young age.

00:33:24: And creativity came from that for me.

00:33:28: I think creativity for everyone comes from that.

00:33:30: So they supported it!

00:33:32: I think this is the main difference That maybe separates creative people From People Who Do A Job to do a job, or profession.

00:33:44: I mean yeah people go in medicine also probably have a passion let's say People who are passionate for their professions and both is totally fine.

00:33:55: but the difference i think we get a sense of being hooked and it's hard to explain sometimes because sometimes isn't the path to become rich or even have a stable income and you

00:34:15: still keep going.

00:34:16: You're fulfilling your life's purpose, I think if in any profession.

00:34:30: that means everything.

00:34:37: And you're right, it doesn't matter.

00:34:39: The money will come.

00:34:40: Money is energy.

00:34:42: It'll find you You will be fine

00:34:49: in the end that when you are a creative person, it's like... It comes to you.

00:35:13: You're like a channel okay?

00:35:14: This sounds maybe little bit spiritual but we gonna have talk about.

00:35:18: this is part of the game.

00:35:20: Yes!

00:35:21: Its' like your being a channel and you are guided.

00:35:25: because where does creativity really come from right?

00:35:28: Absolutely.

00:35:29: I mean i think one hundred fifty percent agree with you..I think creativity comes form intuition.

00:35:36: There's energy that flows in every single one of us.

00:35:40: And some of us are aware of it, and some of we're not aware a bit.

00:35:44: It's like...it is kind thing just to help you.

00:35:46: this isn't necessarily describing what creativity but its gonna bring back the creativity.

00:35:53: If your living in Afghanistan Your sister lives in Berlin You think about her Then suddenly phone rings.

00:36:07: What is that?

00:36:08: Is that synchronicity, oh just happenstance or a kind of energetic surge the sister has received to make them connect.

00:36:20: I think it's energy and creativity sources from this same place.

00:36:30: when i work with an actor For a particular role.

00:36:38: You know what?

00:36:38: I have this idea.

00:36:40: Can you try this and then the actor will say, I want to try something Mm-hmm.

00:36:48: And then i'll say okay because you have to be polite Then i'll sort of sit back and i'll wait for The actor To try whatever it is that they want to Try and then i'm like blown away when It's over Because that's exactly the idea That i had.

00:37:04: How did that, you know how does that happen?

00:37:06: That's not just made up stuff.

00:37:09: Like that's energy!

00:37:10: That's how I see it.

00:37:12: You see i get very passionate about

00:37:13: it.

00:37:14: I know but

00:37:14: me too...I think you explained

00:37:17: so well.

00:37:20: It's like your mom something happens to your mum and you're like

00:37:24: oh

00:37:25: what-.

00:37:25: I need to call my mother and find out what happened.

00:37:27: And then you called her.

00:37:27: she was like oohh I took a spill.

00:37:30: Yeah anyway And this is the energy also... I mean, okay.

00:37:42: This whole topic is something that a lot of creative people know and deal with all the time in every day.

00:37:52: My colleagues, essentially after having a creative career in TV, stage all that stuff dancers move a lot into helping other people like into I don't know through therapist or through holistic stuff.

00:38:11: Or body work stuff

00:38:15: because

00:38:15: it's a natural path forward cuz you're so connected to yourself and the bodies are very good at helping others.

00:38:24: Yes, you had talked about side jobs.

00:38:27: They're dancers who teach Pilates

00:38:30: right?

00:38:31: Pilates instructors?

00:38:32: that's a completely different profession than being a Broadway dancer.

00:38:37: there are two professions that this one person does together so we can call it as side job but its really your job too.

00:38:48: yeah

00:38:48: theyre two jobs.

00:38:51: for the majority of my adult life, I've been working just on the side as we like to call it.

00:39:03: Doing energy healing for people.

00:39:05: now that's something because my intuition is very strong.

00:39:10: i've been gifted with an incredible sense of understanding people in a way that can help them.

00:39:21: yeah and I would get paid a certain amount of money, but I was still a director.

00:39:29: And originally I thought it was for fun right?

00:39:32: It's like oh this is fine i know how to do that.

00:39:34: so can help people.

00:39:36: But now as you were saying im moving into full time job.

00:39:43: Right built the business around.

00:39:45: So have two full-time jobs.

00:39:48: Im working as an energy healer something that I've always done, but formalizing it makes it somehow more palpable to yourself and fulfills your purpose even more.

00:40:04: So i totally hear what you're saying.

00:40:07: And making an official business also... It's a scary part?

00:40:13: Oh

00:40:15: yeah!

00:40:16: I took very deep breath Gary, but and you're energizing.

00:40:28: Yes, energizing in my cab ride home last night was with a friend who like you described You know she's an education in reformed education charter schools here And so she goes to work at nine o'clock and she gets off it five o' clock the very different kind of lifestyle to mine.

00:40:45: and She said well how has it been?

00:40:46: You know starting your business and I said Sixteen hours a day sometimes there one you know seven days a week getting it off the ground, but its amazing.

00:40:57: It's AMAZING and she was like that is a lot of hours to feel so amazing!

00:41:06: But IT IS!

00:41:07: I love it because i'm doing something new and im doing on my own and Im a woman!

00:41:13: Its like WOAH!

00:41:15: I can do this!

00:41:17: And it's also like, you need to learn so many things that you don't know before.

00:41:21: Right?

00:41:21: Because becomes a business there is accounting and building your website There are so much marketing.

00:41:27: That's

00:41:28: right!

00:41:29: It's a lot.

00:41:30: but as I said its so fulfilling because again You're creating everything out of yourself.

00:41:38: Thats right Yeah...and then you give in.

00:41:41: Its what YOU'RE doing Susie.

00:41:42: Yes!

00:41:43: What you're doing you know, your reaching people.

00:41:47: You're giving to people.

00:41:48: Your bringing joy and elements of something that YOU KNOW that others may not into their lives.

00:41:57: so it's like every week with your podcasts and the work that you are doing on IG right?

00:42:04: And TikTok!

00:42:04: Like YOUR creating stories that are changing lives...and THAT'S exactly what I do but in a different way through my transformation healing.

00:42:17: And also I have to tell everybody, I had already two sessions with Leah and they were amazing!

00:42:25: You...I'm gonna call it out you saved my ass.

00:42:29: Oh that's- You really did?

00:42:33: I am so happy to hear that That is like

00:42:36: a score

00:42:37: of getting an A plus on the test

00:42:41: And it's so sometimes difficult to describe what it is because its really tapping into an energy, and a channel.

00:42:51: That you help people.

00:42:52: that how I felt.

00:42:54: You helped me connect with myself again To my own wisdom and see the path forward and getting some nudges along.

00:43:10: Easy to hear sometimes because there comes a part.

00:43:13: Sometimes when I'm like, oh my God!

00:43:18: But you know it's the right way.

00:43:20: Yeah i mean You nailed It...I think that we go along our lives every day and if We're lucky enough..we love it If were lucky To enjoy living.

00:43:33: That's A remarkable experience first of all Because we come here knowing Earth is a hard place.

00:43:45: Since I've been alive, there have been wars everywhere throughout the world and that energy makes its way into your own local communities where in our case lots of shootings muggings horrible things happen to people.

00:44:10: but If you can find your inner self to have inner peace, to be able to navigate through those difficulties.

00:44:21: It makes living so much more worthwhile.

00:44:24: and So what I do though?

00:44:26: integrating a bunch of different modalities that i really perfected in my work as an artist directing?

00:44:36: I help people transform And find their way back to themselves.

00:44:40: Yeah.

00:44:41: And that's really what you're describing is like, You were slightly imbalanced and so my job Is to help you get more balanced by pulling on different sources That some of us may not know exist or how to tap into.

00:44:59: Yes I've been given What we call a gift.

00:45:02: i don't necessarily Like that word because We all are have A gift But mine has been sort of elevated to like the one hundred thousandth percent.

00:45:12: And so I can, I can tap in quite quickly and give you a quick example.

00:45:17: yesterday.

00:45:18: know that day before yesterday was at a wedding and iIwas sitting next to.

00:45:22: uh man You Know how it is at weddings where you don't know anyone.

00:45:25: they sit you Next people?

00:45:26: You Don't know when your forced to learn To meet someone Which Is sometimes great Sometimes Like When This Going to be over and When Will The Dancing Begin

00:45:36: Totally.

00:45:37: So, luckily we liked each other and so he said you know... We introduced us together.

00:45:43: I said I'm Leah He's that I'm Andres.

00:45:46: and he said what do You Do?

00:45:47: Well i am a director an also integrative transformation practitioner.

00:45:51: well What is That?

00:45:52: I said well.. I help people find themselves to see the unseen and I can help them See!

00:46:00: And he said which does it mean for example?

00:46:03: And then I just had a download, what we call downloads.

00:46:06: Do you have a brother named Javier?

00:46:09: He's Colombian and he said Javier.

00:46:13: Oh yes!

00:46:14: A Javier sorry that was my American.

00:46:17: Then he says...I do why?

00:46:21: Well..he has not been taking great care of his health.

00:46:27: You gave him something.

00:46:29: Yes i gave them my kidney And I said, yes.

00:46:34: You gave him your kidney and he's not taking care of your kidney.

00:46:37: Your kidney wants you to know that it's not being looked after and that you need to spank Javier as I had to correct myself and tell him that he needs to be better about taking care the sacrifice that you made for

00:46:51: him.".

00:46:53: Wow!

00:46:54: And Andrés just burst into tears because again... I'm certain in the back of his mind, right?

00:47:03: He knew.

00:47:05: But to have me articulate it and bring the language forward... To bring the idea forward.. To bring information forward changes

00:47:14: lives.".

00:47:15: Yes!

00:47:17: And i mean ...I've been with you a lot of times ..i've experienced those downloads.

00:47:24: they're pretty fun , i have to say.

00:47:26: They are always exciting.

00:47:28: something good comes out and you sometimes get a little slap in the face.

00:47:32: I

00:47:34: do try hard to be polite, I ask permission!

00:47:38: But i love it... It's an amazing experience.

00:47:44: And what you described also before is that we're all connected but you've felt it early nurtured trained it and used in your everyday life.

00:48:03: And really take care of

00:48:05: that's exactly right, That's Exactly Right!

00:48:08: Sorry my work phone is going.

00:48:11: That's exactly what It Is.

00:48:15: If each one of us worked hard to nurture it just imagine.

00:48:22: We're calling the human consciousness.

00:48:26: people are beginning to see.

00:48:30: They're beginning to realize, hear that voice... I hear the voice over here right?

00:48:37: But like that Andres-the person next to me already knew more than likely what i said him about his kidney.

00:48:46: it was happening but you can't do when you give a gift.

00:48:49: You've given a gift now and you have to accept and hope That the person who receives knowing you've given it with love, we'll treat it with Love.

00:49:01: And so I think that the more We can really lean into The light of our own inner selves More of us are going to be able To hear.

00:49:13: but in the meantime my job is to help as many As possible here

00:49:19: and i think if You Really Think Of It Very Simply i mean If You have a tooth pain, you go to the dentist and it's a very normal thing.

00:49:27: And he will help

00:49:27: you.".

00:49:29: If you have an emotional blockage or... You keep thinking about something over-and-over again can't break through.

00:49:38: these are also signs that something is not aligned on some things.

00:49:42: little bit of rest there.

00:49:45: someone can help you in your person.

00:49:48: who could do this?

00:49:50: hope now decades that this will get so much more normalized.

00:49:56: Because nowadays if you say, oh I went to an energetic healing a lot of people are like what?

00:50:01: Are you crazy?

00:50:04: That's just weird!

00:50:07: And it

00:50:08: is sometimes faster healing than other ways and i hope Excited about

00:50:22: it.

00:50:22: That's right, actually yeah I do too Susie.

00:50:25: i mean i think It's like we We here in the states and i don't know what?

00:50:29: It's Like In Germany but i'd say in The last forty Years.

00:50:34: americans love therapy Mm-hmm Right Yeah like we the whole movement Psychiatrists that Whole thing you Know a lot of.

00:50:43: it is stemming from Of course wanting to help people But its also the pharmaceutical industry.

00:50:47: yes If you can find a way, knowing that you've tried therapy and just nothing's working.

00:50:55: Knowing you have been talking to people about the same issue over-and-over... ...and nothing is working or want change your life You know..you just cant seem to find a path forward This kind of work like within a few months and you're in, yeah.

00:51:10: And your done?

00:51:11: Yes!

00:51:12: You are brand new self.

00:51:14: it's like how did that happen?

00:51:15: because you do the work this does require to be doing as described.

00:51:22: when we say I think there is a lot of people right away maybe are like...

00:51:27: I know.. Because

00:51:29: what it takes its have look at yourself and thats alot times not easy sometimes painful But I mean, it works.

00:51:41: It works.

00:51:42: and how

00:51:43: many times would will you chew on the same problem over and over again?

00:51:49: And why he don't need to know?

00:51:51: no one needs too.

00:51:52: i mean there is like if You think about in these terms Let's go back To what we talked About at The beginning of the conversation with How Actors Work.

00:52:00: Mm-hmm.

00:52:01: Actors are Given.

00:52:03: They see they read a script and they Read the character, and they discover the life of the character.

00:52:13: So imagine you Susie or anyone in your audience They have a script.

00:52:18: it's their life.

00:52:20: And there reading their life and Their life as they turn the pages can go any one way Right?

00:52:28: They can decide yeah which where goes.

00:52:31: an oftentimes we believe We can't make choices for ourselves, we can't turn the page and see a whole new me.

00:52:42: We're just going to say the same old person, the same ol' misery, this same old

00:52:46: unhappiness.".

00:52:47: And...and we accept that's where should be because thats script was given us.

00:52:55: but imagine if you are an actor and receive that script describe that person in that way.

00:53:03: And then you said, You know what?

00:53:05: I'd like to try something.

00:53:07: I'd Like To Try An Adjustment and that's What We Call It In The Theatre.

00:53:14: I Just Want To Make One Adjustment.

00:53:16: Then You Ask Permission.

00:53:17: Would You Mind If I Make This Adjustment And You're Asking the Room That as The Actor But As The Person yourself in your universe and God, whatever you believe in.

00:53:30: Your source would you mind if I try an adjustment?

00:53:34: And that adjustment when you've infused it into your mind body and spirit turns into a brand new direction That makes the whole new person that enlightens You and fills you like.

00:53:52: make your life worth while and thats way we should live every single day.

00:53:57: Yes, you described it perfectly.

00:54:01: And I think it starts with being curious?

00:54:05: Yes!

00:54:07: You must...

00:54:08: If things are boring to you and the same and that's when you can't figure out or want more excitement like curiosity is the first step.

00:54:23: Encourage!

00:54:25: And courage, because getting to a point in your life where you can turn the page and you can see something that is completely what you always dreamed for yourself.

00:54:40: Wow!

00:54:40: Yeah wow...and I can speak it?

00:54:43: Because i'm living it.

00:54:44: yes

00:54:45: yeah good poem..I've done it and

00:54:48: just.

00:54:49: I love waking up in the mornings.

00:54:54: It's just thrilling.

00:55:02: Now that we're coming to the end, I also wanna talk about... So i met Lia.

00:55:07: how long ago?

00:55:09: Feels like our entire lifetime.

00:55:12: Maybe two or three

00:55:16: years ago accidentally, if you would call it or the universe conspired to bring us together.

00:55:22: That's probably what happened.

00:55:24: I agree

00:55:26: and there is.

00:55:27: we're three women And we have a little club.

00:55:32: We see each other regularly we talk regularly we have fun deep creative conversations.

00:55:42: One of the big things that we three do is we really push each other We guide each other, we help each other and we are the biggest cheerleaders of each other.

00:55:55: Yes absolutely

00:55:58: And I want to really tell people find your kind-of People.

00:56:04: that's right.

00:56:05: Yeah Find Your People and how do you find?

00:56:08: You're people when you Are.

00:56:11: at least this is How i found my people When i was out My lowest low as I was describing, like i kept turning the page and it was just the same thing.

00:56:22: And as much as I loved being a director right?

00:56:27: As a woman It's really hard in our industry and as you're getting older its even harder that I loved it and wanted to stay involved in it, but also knew something else was missing.

00:56:41: And so for three years i searched for that something

00:56:45: else."

00:56:46: That's a very hard difficult time of my life...very hard!

00:56:51: Then what started doing is just praying not on the knees, but sending out energy to the universe and say, I need to find my people.

00:57:05: Bring My People To

00:57:07: Me.".

00:57:08: And i knew that My People were creative so they're gonna be people who push a fire under my tushy?

00:57:17: When I said I'm going get that book started well this is date.

00:57:20: you said we are getting it let's go!

00:57:24: And it was a gift.

00:57:28: It was a person introducing me to our mutual friend who introduced me to you and that we could feel when we were together, and we always do the energy is just powerful.

00:57:43: That's what she searched for.

00:57:45: and say if you ask You will receive in Christianity?

00:57:49: That is something that has said a lot.

00:57:51: If you asked he will receive.

00:57:53: but its also said an every other religion in some form or fashion because that's the human condition.

00:58:03: And it's just like exactly how you said, I think i didn't actively ask for.

00:58:13: something needs to change.

00:58:14: I need, you know like i'm changing...I need different kind of people in my life and then just out of curiosity the puzzle just you know it worked there we were.

00:58:27: that's right!

00:58:28: And Susie We should share with your audience because when three one American One sweet and one German we all travel a lot but that we meet either in person or on Zoom twice a month, so that we can keep each other going.

00:58:47: We can check-in and we're not afraid to check-In about our personal but we really focus In On Our Careers!

00:58:55: And where are you right now?

00:58:58: We've set milestones for Each Other...we're in support of each other.

00:59:01: So it's like..We Are Our Own Little Business, Our own little team

00:59:07: And we have deadlines, and you rewrite them down.

00:59:10: We're holding each other accountable.

00:59:12: sometimes it's uncomfortable because sometimes you have to be honest and say I'm not there yet but iI'm working on it... But also the great thing is that once your little tribe starts knowing one another so well then they just know how push this person a bit Burn

00:59:37: a little bit, come on.

00:59:39: You can get it done?

00:59:40: That's right and you're tired to get away with anything now.

00:59:43: I must admit totally!

00:59:47: I also remember.

00:59:48: so we got together for birthday of us the other day And you called me out...you guys called me Out..and It was very uncomfortable.

00:59:57: i Was like okay and it stuck With Me afterwards.

01:00:00: and oh this wasn't great.

01:00:04: Do you Remember what it is about?

01:00:06: I used the excuse.

01:00:09: You know, we were talking about what is my plan?

01:00:11: What's happening next?

01:00:12: What am I working

01:00:12: on?".

01:00:13: And then i came up with this old thing that i'm always saying oh but you know since covid and my jobs weren't there...and i'm not making the money i used to.

01:00:23: and blah blah blah.

01:00:24: and you guys said well you've set this over and over again.

01:00:27: how long are you gonna say this?

01:00:28: it's over!

01:00:29: This isn't an excuse-you're going to be done with it

01:00:31: That's right..I remember that.

01:00:37: No, no.

01:00:37: You were good, Susie!

01:00:38: You sort of sat back and you took a deep breath... And you went... You're right I did do that don't I?

01:00:44: And you repeated about three times Yes Do that?

01:00:48: it was like telling yourself..I think i'd do that.

01:00:54: but now look at you.

01:00:56: That's what we are here for

01:01:00: And I'm not using it anymore.

01:01:02: also for myself, you know like as an excuse.

01:01:05: Oh and i think It's a tough love thing You

01:01:10: know?

01:01:10: I would say that That's what it is but we're Also able to receive it.

01:01:15: yes

01:01:17: so

01:01:17: true

01:01:17: We are Not afraid To give Because there Is A Trust There'S A Bond.

01:01:22: When You Find Those allies.

01:01:25: When you find those people, when you find your people that you can trust in anything you do and life it makes life worth

01:01:34: living.".

01:01:35: Yes!

01:01:36: And that is... That's a great way to end this because you said it right?

01:01:40: Giving love and receiving it also the-that somebody is really in your corner.

01:01:46: It's everything.

01:01:47: Ahhhh..it just so fast.

01:01:49: It really is.

01:01:50: You could pick up the phone Face time.

01:01:55: Yeah, you know and to be able to say it to someone I did It.

01:02:00: I Did it if saying it yourself?

01:02:02: And then you're saying it to them.

01:02:04: We talked about it, and I did it.

01:02:07: that's brilliant yeah awesome,

01:02:11: and it doesn't really end.

01:02:12: i have To also admit sometimes when You start to Be open to finding your people it will be new People coming into Your life

01:02:20: always.

01:02:21: That will be the best part of it because they get to know you from where you are

01:02:27: now.

01:02:28: Yeah,

01:02:29: that is so refreshing sometimes!

01:02:31: Yes I Know.

01:02:35: and then you can continue growing together right?

01:02:38: It's beautiful yeah.

01:02:41: So Send it out there You who are listening And The Right People Will Show Up And You Will Know It.

01:02:51: You will feel it.

01:02:53: I agree, yeah we are the true testament.

01:02:56: Yes It's so true They can do it

01:03:00: And how is none of your business?

01:03:02: This would just happen.

01:03:03: That's right Agreed.

01:03:05: Yeah like you said...I kinda knew i wasn't necessarily Like me..you weren't necessarily putting out there But you were putting it Out There Cause you Knew that you Were ready for a change.

01:03:17: and when you know that you're Ready For Change And when it presents itself to you, if its scary do-it.

01:03:25: Yes Then You know It's good.

01:03:28: When Its Scary Do-It.

01:03:30: Yes I have nothing more to add.

01:03:33: This is a great answer.

01:03:36: Wonderful.

01:03:37: Thank you for having me.

01:03:38: Olya was

01:03:39: so great To Have you.

01:03:40: thankyou For Explaining the whole industry to us in New York City and tapping into this energetic work that your doing.

01:03:48: Im gonna put all of your infos in the show notes, your Instagram.

01:03:53: Your website and if you listen and feel a bubbly feeling that this might be something for you please reach out to Leah.

01:04:04: she is the best at what she does.

01:04:08: I guarantee her will help me.

01:04:11: And it's also right?

01:04:16: You're my friend but i'm coming too and I pay you for it because this is what you do, And This Is Your Profession.

01:04:26: And this is totally okay!

01:04:29: And normal... You know?

01:04:32: Sometimes It gets mixed up like oh she's my friend She would do it for me For free.

01:04:37: No!!

01:04:38: I want to pay you also for your service Because you're so good Because if i'm good at something I want my friends to be the first ones.

01:04:51: To be like, yay!

01:04:53: Let's do

01:04:53: it.".

01:04:54: Yes yes i think that so well said Susie because often times and in my position oftentimes people aren't there they sort of aren't willing to receive.

01:05:04: That's where was early on process Like oh its okay It's not ok right?

01:05:09: This is work And even though Its' Work that exists out here So does making plays.

01:05:18: It exists out here until it all comes together and the final production that you see on stage, You see in yourself The new final production...you are a New-and-changed person.

01:05:33: That's what transformation is all about And its exquisite.

01:05:37: to be able To go through it and become several different people In one lifetime.

01:05:43: Thats' the magic of living

01:05:46: And it's so much fun.

01:05:48: Yeah, I agree!

01:05:51: I love the work and I love helping people.

01:05:53: So thank

01:05:53: you You're so good at this.

01:05:58: If you would like to work with Leah reach out to her.

01:06:02: Thank-you for coming on.

01:06:03: Please thank you and thank you for having me.

01:06:06: and i'm just.

01:06:07: i'm so thrilled.

01:06:08: i Just don't want people To think oh but she is in america?

01:06:11: And i am in germany.

01:06:12: no i Work via zoom And this work is done through Zoom for everyone, even people who live around the corner.

01:06:20: Yes

01:06:20: because energy doesn't know what time and space... Energy doesn't care about that

01:06:26: stuff.

01:06:26: That's exactly right!

01:06:28: You nailed it well said.

01:06:31: Thank you Suzy.

01:06:32: Have a wonderful day Lia.

01:06:34: Thankyou.

01:06:34: my love you too.

01:06:36: Thanks everyone for listening and ciao ciao from New York.