Historical Drama with The Boston Sisters

In Ep. 84 we talk with historian Anthony Cohen about the Underground Railroad and its legendary conductor Harriet Tubman as seen in the 2019 film HARRIET.  Anthony Cohen personally retraced the  journey of the Underground Railroad and self-emancipation by foot, rail, and boat from Maryland to Canada in 1996.  His walk got the attention of Oprah Winfrey who asked him to prepare her for her role in the 1998 film BELOVED based on the Toni Morrison novel.The 2019 film HARRIET traces the escape from slavery to freedom of Minty Ross, and her transformation into the iconic American freedom fighter Harriet Tubman. Haunted by memories of those she left behind, Harriet Tubman ( Cynthia Erivo) ventures back into dangerous territory on a mission to lead others to freedom. With allies like abolitionist William Still (Leslie Odom, Jr.) and the entrepreneurial Marie Buchanon (Janelle Monae), Harriet Tubman risks capture and death to guide hundreds to safety as one of the most prominent conductors of the Underground Railroad. -------TIMESTAMPS0:02 - Podcast Open1:49 - History of the Underground Railroad3:59 - Overview HARRIET film5:00 - Anthony Cohen's 1996 Underground Railroad Journey16:25 - Underground Railroad: Networks, Risks, and Dangers27:56 - Preparation for Historical Immersive Experiences 32:26 - Preparing Oprah Winfrey for BELOVED film42:50 - The Menare Foundation Mission and Activities46:22 - Five Steps for Understanding Freedom Seekers46:49 Anthony Cohen's 2026 Walk to Canada1:02:25 - Engaging with History and Call to Action------Revolution to Rights: America at 250 " series. The historical dramas featured in "Revolution to Rights" tell stories of battles fought in the quest for freedom, and the people whose collective actions and courage inspire us to move beyond remembrance, and to take actions today to ensure freedom and justice for all.SUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstore. SHOP for books selected for the REVOLUTION TO RIGHTS series.Buy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!

In Episode 83, The Boston Sisters talk about the 2012 film LINCOLN (directed by Steven Spielberg) with The Honorable Sharon Pratt, former Mayor of Washington, DC , and Founding Director of the Institute of Politics Policy and History on the campus of the University of the District of Columbia . The conversation with Mayor Pratt focuses on Abraham Lincoln's leadership, the moral complexities of the Civil War, the significance of Lincoln's presidency in transforming Washington, DC, and the broader implications of the 13th Amendment and the ongoing struggle for freedom and justice in America.Episode 83 launches REVOLUTION TO RIGHTS: AMERICA AT 250, a 10-episode podcast series from Historical Drama with The Boston Sisters® that takes you on a journey through America’s 250-year history of advancing freedom and justice since the Declaration of Independence in 1776.TIMESTAMPS0:15 - Introduction to REVOLUTION TO RIGHTS: AMERICA AT 250 podcast series2:07 - Film overviews: LINCOLN, HARRIET, and GLORY2:59 - Lincoln and the 13th Amendment7:33 - Institute of Politics, Policy and History elevating stories of Washington DC11:51 - Discussion of Lincoln in Historical Context: Civil War, Abolition, 13th Amendment17:37 - Lincoln's Moral Center and Leadership23:27 - Attributes and Challenges of Leadership29:00 - Impact of Civil War and Reconstruction on the Nation's Capital36:07 - Lincoln's Legacy42:09 - Institute of Politics Policy and History Programs47:43 - Personal reflection: stories worthy of the screen———SUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!

In episode 82, The Boston Sisters discuss the Hallmark Channel’s adaptation of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility featuring a multiracial cast. Vanessa Riley, the historical and cultural consulting producer, shares her journey into Austen's works and her role in ensuring historical accuracy and cultural sensitivity. Riley also discusses her novels Queen of Exilesand Island Queen, which explore the lives of Marie-Louise Christophe, Haiti's only queen, and Dorothy “Dolly” Kirwan Thomas, a formerly enslaved woman who became a wealthy entrepreneur. Riley emphasizes the importance of representing diverse historical figures and the potential adaptation of her novels into films.Award-winning author Vanessa Riley, honored as the 2023 Georgia Literary Fiction Author of the Year, spotlights hidden narratives of Black women and women of color in novels. Her works emphasize strong sisterhoods, diverse communities, and power across historical fiction, romance, and mystery genres.TIMESTAMPS0:03 - Podcast description1:30 - Overview of Sense and Sensibility2:42 - Introduction to Vanessa Riley, historical and cultural producer and historical fiction author4:05 - Vanessa's Jane Austen origin story7:25 - Jane Austen's wit9:19 - Historical authenticity and cultural sensitivity in Hallmark Channel’s SENSE AND SENSIBILITY17:39 - Challenges and achievements in adapting “Sense and Sensibility”20:35 - Generic Break21:03 - Discovering Dorothy “Dolly’ Kirwan Thomas, “Island Queen”28:35 - Vanessa's Research and discoveries for “Queen of Exiles” (Marie-Louise Christophe)36:15 - Future adaptations and Vanessa Riley's visionNote: Ep. 82 has been updated to correct a technical error in the introduction. ------SUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!

In episode 81, the Boston Sisters (Michon and Taquiena) explore how costumes bring iconic characters to life in 3 adaptations of Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice with Alden O’Brien, costume historian and costume and textile curator for the Daughters of the American Revolution Museum in Washington DC .The 3 PRIDE AND PREJUDICE adaptations featured:1995 (BBC/Arts & Entertainment) series2005 (Focus Features, Universal Pictures) feature film, Upcoming Netflix adaptation (release date TBA) based on a first look photo. Alden O'Brien also gives some costume shine to the 2020 film adaptation of Austen's Emma in this conversation, and shares tips and resources for creating your own Regency look for Jane Austen birthday anniversary events and cosplay.Episode 81 is a continuing conversation with Alden O'Brien (see episode 80), part 2 of a 3-podcast miniseries, JANE AUSTEN ADAPTED, to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the popular English author Jane Austen's birth (December 16, 1775).TIMESTAMPS0:16 - PRIDE AND PREJUDICE as gateway to Jane Austen0:31 - Episode 81 synopsis2:30 - Introduction to Alden O'Brien, costume historian and curator4:32 - 1995 PRIDE AND PREJUDICE - pastels, prints, and corsetry 13:59 - 2005 PRIDE AND PREJUDICE -- high contrasts and "muddied hems" 23:53 - Generic Break24:30 - Previewing Netflix PRIDE AND PREJUDICE (photo analysis)32:54 - 2020 EMMA, a "hymn to Regency"35:28 - Resources for dressing Regency39:31 - Costume as narration and author's voice44:53 - Marriage and money - Episode 82 preview with author Vanessa Riley 45:59 - Disclaimer----------SUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!

Explore the fascinating elements of style in Regency and Federal era clothing, inspirations, and the fashion clues that bring Jane Austen’s characters to life with Alden O’Brien, costume historian and curator of costumes and textiles for the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) Museum in Washington, DC.Episode 80 is part 1 of a 3-podcast mini-series, JANE AUSTEN ADAPTED, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the English author’s birth. Jane Austen (1775 - 1817) is beloved for her novels that capture English country life, societal norms, and romances that hinge on the quest for a financially advantageous marriage. TIMESTAMPS0:15 - “Jane Austen Adapted” mini-series synopsis2:44 - Introduction to Alden O'Brien4:30 -  Alden's role at DAR Museum7:09 - Regency and Federal era fashion11:21 - DAR Museum Jane Austen 250th birthday exhibition 14:31 - Historical context of Regency and Federal era style15:32 - Regency influence and relevance in contemporary fashion27:20 - Generic Break29:31 - Sources of fabrics and clothing products35:10 - Empire and colonization in Regency era45:30 - Preview of episode 81, “Jane Austen Adapted”47:30 - DisclaimerSUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!

November 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the Nuremberg Trials in Germany at the end of World War II. In episode 79 Michon and Taquiena Boston aka The Boston Sisters talk with award-winning journalist and author Jack El-Hai about the James Vanderbilt film NUREMBERG based on El-Hai's thought-provoking book, "The Nazi and the Psychiatrist. "Jack El-Hai’s book and the film explore the psychological dynamics between Nazi second-in-command Hermann Göring (Russell Crowe) and American psychiatrist Dr. Douglas M. Kelley (Rami Malek). The book and film delve into the nature of evil, the Nuremberg trials, and Dr. Kelley’s findings from his examinations of the Nazi prisoners that raise questions about the potential for fascism in any and every society. The discussion also touches on the importance of understanding historical events and the role of popular history in reflecting on the present.After their conversation with Jack El-Hai, Michon and Taquiena share their thoughts about “The Nazi and the Psychiatrist,” and NUREMBERG.Spoiler alert: Key moments in the story of the 1945 Nuremberg Trials, and Dr. Douglas M. Kelley’s story, as seen in the film NUREMBERG, are shared in this podcast. ADVISORY: Be advised, the history discussed in this podcast includes themes of suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or visit their website (988lifeline.org). TIMESTAMPS0:03 - Intro and Overview of Podcast2:34 - Jack El-Hai background journalistic accomplishments4:11 - THE NAZI AND THE PSYCHIATRIST Book and NUREMBERG Film Synopsis9:10 - Personal Impact of Writing THE NAZI AND THE PSYCHIATRIST13:58 - Hermann Göring's and Dr. Douglas Kelley's Relationship18:51 - NUREMBERG From Page to Screen25:24 - Generic Podcast Break25:59 - Historical Context and Psychological Evaluations of Nuremberg Prisoners29:17 - Use of Rorschach tests30:04 - Competing Perspectives and Roles of Key Figure41:13 - Legacy and Relevance of Dr. Kelley's Work45:18 - Popular History and Its Role in Understanding the Past48:45 - The Nature of Evil and Fascism56:32 -  Final Thoughts on NUREMBERG Film and THE NAZI AND THE PSYCHIATRIST (Michon and Taquiena)1:04:52 - Recommendations1:06:10 - Disclaimer------SUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!

In episode 78, The Boston Sisters discuss the film adaptations of plays by award-winning playwright August Wilson (1945 - 2005) and their significance in understanding American history with Dr. Sandra G. Shannon, a leading authority on Wilson's work, as well as founder and President Emerita of the August Wilson Society. Three of Wilson plays were adapted into feature films: FENCES, MA RAINEY'S BLACK BOTTOM, andTHE PIANO LESSON. JOE TURNER’S COME AND GONE is currently in development. Dr. Shannon highlights Wilson's mission to give voice to the African American experience and the importance of historical context in teaching his plays. The conversation also explores metaphysical elements in Wilson's works compared to the popular 2025 Ryan Coogler film SINNERS, and the impact of Wilson's plays on contemporary culture.TIMESTAMPS0:02 - Intro to Podcast and Dr. Sandra D. Shannon1:00 - Overview of August Wilson's Plays2:31 - Film Adaptations: MA RAINEY'S BLACK BOTTOM, THE PIANO LESSON, FENCES4:18 - Dr. Sandra D. Shannon's first impressions of August Wilson8:06 - August Wilson Society mission and legacy25:10 - Baltimore's August Wilson Project26:05 - Teaching August Wilson to a tech/media savvy student30:06 - MA RAINEY's BLACK BOTTOM blues history34:39 - THE PIANO LESSON and the value of owning land44:41 - Pittsburgh as "ground" and microcosm56:35 - Teaching history through August Wilson plays59:20 - JOE TURNER'S COME AND GONE and Great Migration1:01:30 - August Wilson, SINNERS, and the supernatural1:11:58 - Upcoming film adaptation1:17:09 - African belief systems in August Wilson1:20:54 - Where to watch FENCES, MA RAINEY'S BLACK BOTTOM, and THE PIANON LESSON1:21:14 - Books by Dr. Sandra Shannon1:22:09 - Disclaimer-----SUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!

In episode 77 of "Historical Drama with The Boston Sisters®," Michon and Taquiena Boston discuss the Apple TV+ series "CHIEF OF WAR" with co-creator (with Jason Momoa), writer, and co-executive producer Thomas Pa'a Sibbett. The series, set between 1782 and 1810, tells the story, based on true events, of Hawai'i's unification from an indigenous perspective, featuring a predominantly Polynesian cast, including Jason Momoa as the warrior Ka'iana. Sibbett emphasizes the importance of cultural authenticity, working with cultural advisors to ensure accuracy in costumes, tattoos, and historical details. The conversation also touches on the broader themes of cultural assimilation, resistance, and the importance of indigenous narratives in understanding history and sustainability.Thomas Pa’a Sibbett is a screenwriter and producer. He rose in the ranks on the film side having penned several features including “Braven” and “The Last Manhunt,” in addition to developing the story on “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom." 0:13 - CHIEF OF WAR synopsis1:31 - Intro to Thomas Pa'a Sibbett, writer and co-executive producer2:45 - Chief Kamehmeha and Warrior Ka'iana stories6:27 - Hawaiian history from Hawaiian perspective6:31 - History and Healing10:26 - Collaboration with cultural advisors14:46 - Tatoos and authenticity16:57 - Queen Ka'ahumanu pushing boundaries21:57 - Hawaiians and African Americans25:13 - Anatomy of a Scene: Vai, the pragmatist vs Ka'iana, the idealist31:57 - Indigenous wisdom and contemporary realities34:26 - Many more stories to tell37:25 - Where to watch CHIEF OF WAR37:57 - Subscribe, like, share podcast38:33 - DisclaimerSUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!

Susanne Simpson, Executive Producer and Head of Scripted Content for MASTERPIECE, the Emmy Award winning PBS drama series, returns to "Historical Drama with The Boston Sisters" for the 5th season preview of MASTERPIECE and MYSTERY! — a podcast annual event since the launch in 2021.In episode 76 Susanne previews new MYSTERY! series coming in the fall 2025 (MAIGRET and THE GOLD), and new historical dramas for MASTERPIECE coming in 2026: THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO based on the classic novel by Alexandre Dumas (pere); and THE FORSYTES, a prequel to the THE FORSYTE SAGA, a 2002 MASTERPIECE series based on the trilogy of novels by English author John Galsworthy (1867-1933). TIME STAMPS:0:29 - Podcast summary0:53 - Susanne Simpson intro2:14 - Public media funding and MASTERPIECE4:47 - Previewing 2025 - 20265:00 PBS Passport5:50 - MAIGRET on MYSTERY!10:11 - THE GOLD on MYSTERY!12:26 - THE FORSYTES on MASTERPIECE20:30 - Multiracial casting in THE FORSYTES and historical drama27:30 - THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO on MASTERPIECE31:36 - Edmond Dantès, revenge, and justice36:03 - Where to watch MASTERPIECE and MYSTERY!36:37 - Subscribe to Historical Drama with The Boston Sisters37:14 - Disclaimer--------SUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!

The 5th season premiere! In Episode 75 we go behind-the-scenes with DOWNTON ABBEY costume designer Anna [Mary Scott] Robbins who reflects on her journey designing costumes for two DOWNTON ABBEY series and the three feature films including the recent and final chapter DOWNTON ABBEY: THE GRAND FINALE.In this conversation, Anna highlights the importance of creating costumes that reflect the characters' shifting roles and status over a decade at Downton Abbey, both upstairs and downstairs. ------TIMESTAMPS0:53 - DOWNTON ABBEY: THE GRAND FINALE synopsis1:27 - Anna Robbins introduction3:06 - Anna Robbin's costume designer' journey8:59 - Downton Abbey art deco style and women's changing role through fashion12:52 - 1920s fashion influences on contemporary designers13:55 - Researching fashion for costume designs17:57 - Collaborative process of the DOWNTON ABBEY production and design teams21:45 - Designing a stand-out tomato red gown for Lady Mary23:09 - Generic Break23:44 - Hats, gloves, and jewelry -- character  is in the details29:13 - Edith and Mary as career women: London style and country estate style32:27 - Designing to reflect upstairs/downstairs hierarchies and generations39:07 - Costuming characters' story arcs (optional addition Daisy's evolution)41:20 - Anna's desired adaptations Chanel biopic, and book adaptation pick - Sarah Winman's Still Life novelTranscripts are available to download from the webpage for this podcast episode. Visit michonbostongroup.com/bostonsistersSUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!

Episode 74 features a conversation with Keith W. Stokes, Rhode Island State Historian Laureate, and Theresa “Soni” Guzman Stokes, Executive Director for the Rhode Island Black Heritage Society (advisors for Season 3 of THE GILDED AGE) about Newport and Rhode Island’s African heritage history. In THE GILDED AGE’s 3rd season, the HBO series created by Julian Fellowes (DOWNTON ABBEY), audiences are introduced to the Kirklands of Newport, Rhode Island, a family with deep roots in Newport’s African heritage community with the professional and educational pedigrees to match. CONTENT NOTES: This podcast is being released prior to the June 22nd premiere of THE GILDED AGE's 3rd season. There may be a few spoilers in the conversation. The word "colored" comes up in its historical content and context. The word “colored” was used in the U.S. to refer to people of African descent during the mid to late 19th century. African Americans embraced "colored" as a self-identifying term during that time, followed by "Negro" (historical content and context).------0:16 - Introduction to the podcast and THE GILDED AGE season 31:17 - GILDED AGE Season 3 Black Newport storyline2:44 - Rhode Island's Black Heritage Society, Theresa Soni Guzmán Stokes and Keith W. Stokes3:52 - Inspiration for Gilded Age Newport In Color exhibition at Rosecliff Mansion (2024)6:45 - Exploring Newport's African Heritage History8:55 - Challenges and importance of history from the African heritage experience 17:21 - Interdependence versus integration23:59 - Newport's African heritage leaders in business and medicine25:17 - Colored Women's Clubs founder Mary Dickerson32:54 - Break33:32 - Race consciousness and uplift in African heritage Newport community 39:11 - Education and Black advancement46:56 - Supporting heritage and historical institutions48:08 - Teaching history and positive youth identity50:46 - Cape Verdeans in African heritage and New England history51:39 - Visiting Newport's African heritage and history58:54 - Theresa Soni Guzmán Stokes' and Keith W. Stokes' historical drama pitches1:05:51 - Where to watch THE GILDED AGE1:06:18 - Rhode Island Black Heritage Society virtual tour and website info1:08:29 - DisclaimerSUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast!  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!

We wrap up Historical Drama with The Boston Sisters®'s 4th season with THE GILDED AGE, the Emmy® nominated HBO Original drama series, from creator Julian Fellowes (DOWNTON ABBEY). Season 3 of THE GILDED AGE introduces a new family: The Kirklands of Newport, RI. We wanted to know more about Newport’s Black history, heritage and community in the 1880s.Preview Episode 74 -- our conversation with Theresa “Soni” Guzmán Stokes (Executive Director of the Rhode Island Black Heritage Society) and Keith W. Stokes (Rhode Island State Historian Laureate), advisors to the third season of THE GILDED AGE series.THE GILDED AGE debuts its eight-episode third season SUNDAY, JUNE 22 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and will be available to stream on Max. Episode 74 will be available on a special date - JUNE 17.Note: “Historical Drama with The Boston Sisters®” will be on Summer hiatus during the months of July and August. The podcast returns in Fall 2025.  ------Stay connected!SIGN UP for our mailing list to stay connectedOr follow usInstagram: @historicaldramasistersFacebook: @historicaldramabostonsisters

Episode 73 is the 2025 Page to Screen podcast where The Boston Sisters talk about 5 books related to historical drama series and films for summer reading.This year we highlight stories or provide a deeper dive into the films and series featured in the 4th podcast season (2024 - 2025). The authors of three 2025 summer reads were guests on the podcast.*​The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen* (2015) | Ep. 58​The Piano Lesson by August Wilson (1986) | Ep. 62​Shirley Chisholm In Her Own Words: Speeches and Writings by Zinga A. Fraser, PhD* (2024) | Ep. 59​Call The Midwife by Jennifer Worth (2002) | Ep. 70​Miss Austen by Gill Hornby* (2020) | Ep. 71-------TIMESTAMPS0:14 - Intro to Episode 731:17 - THE SYMPATHIZER/Viet Thanh Nguyen9:40 - The PIANO LESSON/August Wilson12:59 -SHIRLEY CHISHOLM IN HER OWN WORDS: SPEECHES AND WRITINGS/ Zinga A. Fraser, editor27:52 - Break28:30 CALL THE MIDWIFE/Jennifer Worth41:14 - MISS AUSTEN/Gill Hornby53:05 - Recap------SUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!

In Episode 72, we talk with filmmaker Darren Haruo Rae about NISEI (2023). NISEI , written and directed by Rae, is the first historical drama short film featured on the podcast. The film shines a light on an all-Japanese-American troop of soldiers who fought in World War II for a country imprisoning them and their families in internment camps because of their ancestry. The film is inspired by Rae’s Japanese American grandfather’s experiences during the war.Stream NISEI (film) from the Omeleto YouTube channel.------TIMESTAMPS0:55 - Background and Introduction to NISEI film4:05 - Darren Haruo Rae explains Nisei and importance to his grandfather's generation9:20 - Historical Context and Research17:14 - Symbolism and Themes in Nisei: American flag, identity, home20:36 - NISEI Impact with Japanese veterans and community25:557 - Challenges in Production for the NISEI film30:55 - Future Projects and Historical Stories34:54 - Where to stream NISEI35:08 - Subscribe, Like, Share Historical Drama with The Boston Sisters36:33 - Disclaimer------SUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!

NISEI, a short film written and directed by Darren Haruo Rae, (our guest for Ep. 72), shines a light on an all-Japanese-American troop of soldiers who fought in World War II for a country imprisoning them and their families because of their ancestry. The story is inspired by the filmmaker's Japanese American grandfather's WWII experiences in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team. In the preview, Darren Haruo Rae talks about uncovering his family story while making NISEI.The complete podcast conversation with Darren Haruo Rae is available May 13, 2025. Subcribe to Historical Drama with The Boston Sisters® on your favorite podcast platform so you won't miss a single episode.

In episode 71 we talk with Gill Hornby, author of the best-selling novel Miss Austen which has been adapted for a 4-part series premiering on MASTERPIECE on PBS May 4, 2025 (check local listings). MISS AUSTEN seeks to unravel the historic literary mystery by reimanging Cassandra Austen’s act of sisterly love in burning the letters of her famous author sister Jane Austen after Jane’s death in 1817.  ------TIMESTAMPS0:57- MISS AUSTEN series overview and cast3:14 - Introducing novel writer, Gill Hornby4:06 - Motivation for MISS AUSTEN novel -- Cassandra Austen fan girl9:44 - Adapting MISS AUSTEN for the screen11:47 - Women's financial insecurity in Austen's time16:56 - Mrs. Bennet as the heroine of Pride and Prejudice18:14 - Was Sense and Sensibility a dig at Jane and Cassandra's sister-in-law?20:16 - Sisterly bond of Jane and Cassandra Austen22:57 - Cassandra as Jane's "great wife" behind the writer26:50 - Casting Dr. Lidderdale as Black physician28:58 - Jane Austen's global appeal32:32 - Other Austen novels by Gill Hornby34:49 - Where to watch MISS AUSTEN35:23 - Purchase MISS AUSTEN novel from affiliate bookstore35:43 - Podcast subscription information37:07 - DisclaimerSpoiler alert (if you haven't read the novel or seen the series yet)-----SUBSCRIBE to HISTORICAL DRAMA WITH THE BOSTON SISTERS® on your favorite podcast platformENJOY⁠ past podcasts and bonus episodes⁠SIGN UP⁠ for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast ⁠ SHOP THE PODCAST⁠ on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — ⁠buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasisters⁠Thank you for listening!

Episode 71 preview: In episode 71 we talk with Gill Hornby, author of the best-selling novel Miss Austen which has been adapted for a 4-part series premiering on MASTERPIECE on PBS May 4, 2025 (check local listings). The complete podcast (Episode 71) featuring this conversation with Gill Hornby will be published Tuesday, April 29. MISS AUSTEN seeks to unravel the historic literary mystery by reimanging Cassandra Austen’s act of sisterly love in burning the letters of her famous author sister Jane Austen after Jane’s death in 1817.  Subscribe to Historical Drama with The Boston Sisters® on your favorite platform so you won’t miss this great conversation with Gill Hornby.

In episode 70, we go behind the scenes of CALL THE MIDWIFE with Jenny Agutter who portrays Sister Julienne in the series. Jenny Agutter has been with CALL THE MIDWIFE since the series premiere in 2012. CALL THE MIDWIFE is enjoying its 14th season on PBS.Created and written by Heidi Thomas, CALL THE MIDWIFE is based on the trilogy of memoirs by Jennifer Worth about her experiences as a midwife nurse in London’s East End during the 1950s (Season 14 is set in 1970). The series presents moving and intimate stories that capture the history and work of British midwifery with the characters’s personal and the Poplar community’s struggles with illness, addiction, domestic violence, xenophobia and racism, poverty, displacement, death and grief.During the conversation, Agutter emphasizes the show's focus on humanity, empathy, and community, and its accurate portrayal of midwifery practices.--------TIMESTAMPS0:08 - Introduction to Historical Drama with The Boston Sisters podcast1:28 - CALL THE MIDWIFE show overview and themes4:01 - Jenny Agutter on CALL THE MIDWIFE's popularity6:10 -  Season 14 themes and social issues11:41 - Historical and medical accuracy in CALL THE MIDWIFE 15:00 - Medical impact of CALL THE MIDWIFE 21:15 - Sister Julienne's role and character arc27: 59 - Empathy and community in CALL THE MIDWIFE31:12 - Public health versus community care and health34:12 - Sister Julienne's leadership and community support35.12 - Future of Nonnatus House40:00 - Where to catch CALL THE MIDWIFE (PBS, Netflix)40:33 - Books related to CALL THE MIDWIFE42:22 - DisclaimerSUBSCRIBE to the podcast on your favorite podcast platformENJOY⁠ past podcasts and bonus episodes⁠SIGN UP⁠ for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast ⁠ SHOP THE PODCAST⁠ on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — ⁠buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasisters⁠Thank you for listening!

In episode 70, we go behind the scenes of the drama series CALL THE MIDWIFE with Jenny Agutter who portrays Sister Julienne. Jenny Agutter has been with CALL THE MIDWIFE since the series's premiere in 2012. CALL THE MIDWIFE is enjoying its 14th season on PBS.Created and written by Heidi Thomas, CALL THE MIDWIFE is based on the trilogy of memoirs by Jennifer Worth about her experiences as a midwife nurse in London’s East End during the 1950s (Season 14 is set in 1970). In the preview for episode 70, Jenny Agutter talks about why CALL THE MIDWIFE is a series for our times.The complete podcast is available April 8, 2025. 

In episode 69 we spotlight the PBS Masterpiece series WOLF HALL: THE MIRROR AND THE LIGHT with a behind-the-scenes visit to the Folger Shakespeare Library exhibition, “How to Be a Power Player: Tudor Edition” with the curator Dr. Heather Wolfe Curator of Manuscripts for the Folger (in Washington, DC), which holds the world’s largest Shakespeare collection. WOLF HALL: THE MIRROR AND THE LIGHT traces the final four years of Thomas Cromwell’s life, completing his journey from self-made man to the most feared, influential figure of his time as a principal advisory to England's King Henry VIII. The series is based on the final novel by Hilary Mantel in the Thomas Cromwell trilogy. As an added bonus, Heather Wolfe shared documents from the Folger collection for the real-life Thomas Cromwell, Henry the VIII, and Henry's 4th wife, Anne of Cleves,. Go to the podcast website (for Ep. 69) to see images of these artifacts and for more information about the Foger Shakespeare Library's exhibit "How to Be a Power Player: Tudor Edition" on display through July 2025.------TIMESTAMPS0:19 - A Visit to the Folger Shakespeare Library (Washington, DC)0:56 - Folger “How to Be a Power Player: Tudor Style” exhibit2:02 - “Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light” overview and cast3:18-  Heather Wolfe, Curator of Manuscripts at Folger Shakespeare Library3:30 - Roles and Responsibilities of Curator of Manuscripts4:22 - Paleography, the study of handwriting5:14 - Inspiration behind “How To Be A Power Player: Tudor Style” and relevance to 20256:48 - Tudor power players' relationships, skills, and power dynamics7:38 - Tudor "playbooks" from Machiavelli and Castiglione 12:19 - Power dressing, fashion policing, and personal branding in Tudor times15:13 - Hospitality power plays: napkin folding and meat carving22:48 - Break23:32 - Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII, and Anne of Cleves artifacts and letters29:57 - Class status and social mobility in Tudor Times32:36 - Women's power and influence in the Tudor court36:09 - Visitor takeaways from “How to Be A Power Playe: Tudor Edition”r exhibit38:21 - Folger Shakespeare Library resources38:50 - How to watch “Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light” on PBS “Masterpiece”41:04 - DisclaimerSUBSCRIBE to the podcast on your favorite podcast platformLISTEN to past podcasts and bonus episodesSIGN UP for our mailing listSUPPORT this podcast  SHOP THE PODCAST on our affiliate bookstoreBuy us a Coffee! You can support by buying a coffee ☕ here — buymeacoffee.com/historicaldramasistersThank you for listening!