We’re kicking off the 31 Days of Halloween with a chilling deep dive into Jordan Peele’s modern horror classic Get Out (2017). Stephen is joined by co-host Ryan Dean Halbrook as we explore how Peele’s razor-sharp blend of social commentary and suspense reshaped the horror genre. From the film’s iconic symbolism (the Sunken Place, teacup hypnosis) to its cultural impact and Oscar-winning script, we break down what makes Get Out both terrifying and unforgettable.Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
The Sound of Henry James – Part 2Performances begin this Thursday, and Matt is back with more music from our new adaptation of The Turn of the Screw. This time, he shares the rest of the score—unveiling the melodies and moods that shape Henry James’s ghost story for the stage.Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
What does Henry James sound like when set to music? In this episode, Matt shares tracks from our new musical inspired by The Turn of the Screw and walks us through how he found the melodies, moods, and motifs that bring James’s words to life. We explore the sparks of inspiration behind the score, the challenges of capturing James’s haunting ambiguity in song, and how music transforms the ghostly atmosphere of the novella for the stage.Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
In this episode, we put our own script for The Turn of the Screw to the test — running it through ChatGPT for a side-by-side analysis with Henry James’s original novella. What did we preserve from James’s haunting classic, and where did we take creative liberties? From framing devices to ghostly ambiguity, we explore the choices that make our adaptation uniquely theatrical while staying true to the spirit of the source. If you’ve ever wondered how a literary masterpiece evolves when it moves to the stage, this episode gives you both the blueprint and the behind-the-scenes perspective on our Creative Cauldron production.Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
In this episode, we’re giving you Henry James 101 — a crash course in the life, style, and legacy of one of literature’s most complex storytellers. From his mastery of psychological nuance to his lasting influence on modern fiction, we’ll unpack what makes James essential reading. Then, we pivot to the stage with a sneak peek into our latest production of his chilling classic The Turn of the Screw at Creative Cauldron. Whether you’re new to James or revisiting his haunting world, this episode blends literary insight with behind-the-scenes perspective on bringing his work to life in 2025.Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
In this episode, we wrap up Summer 2025 — from the personal milestones to the cultural moments that defined the season — and look ahead to what’s coming this fall. From highlights that made the summer memorable to the events and projects on the horizon, it’s part reflection, part preview, and all conversation.Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
In this episode, we take on the headlines of the day — not with seriousness, but with satire. From the absurd to the all-too-familiar, we lampoon the news cycle, poking fun at the stories that dominate our feeds and laughing at the way they’re told. Think of it as a real-time roast of the world’s current events, with our own twists, tangents, and plenty of humor along the way.Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
In this episode, we dive into what’s trending on TikTok — from the videos filling our For You pages to the oddly specific corners of the app that pop up in our own feeds. Along the way, we compare notes on our personal algorithms, laugh at how different (and sometimes eerily accurate) they can be, and even roll with an unexpected phone call that briefly interrupts the recording (don’t worry, we’re back after just a couple of seconds). It’s a laid-back, real-time look at the wild world of TikTok through our own scrolling habits.Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
In this episode, we switch things up with a grab bag of surprise questions — each written in secret and revealed on the spot. From dream vacations to the movies and documentaries we’ve been watching lately, no topic was off-limits. The result is a funny, freewheeling conversation full of unexpected tangents, shared stories, and plenty of laughs. If you’re into spontaneous, unfiltered chats that wander wherever curiosity takes us, this one’s for you.Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
In this episode, we dive headfirst into our love for the groundbreaking 2001 film Hedwig and the Angry Inch. From its punk-rock heart to its soul-baring storytelling, we explore what makes this cult classic so enduring—and so personal to us. We unpack the mythology behind “The Origin of Love,” dig into the dual versions of “Wicked Little Town,” and share how Hedwig shaped our own creative journeys. Whether you first saw it onstage or discovered it on screen, this one’s for the misfits, dreamers, and lovers of bold, beautiful storytelling.Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
Broadway performer and creative force PJ Adzima joins us for a lively conversation about his journey from The Book of Mormon to launching Stage Time, a late-night cabaret series that celebrates spontaneity and self-expression. We explore the origins of this after-hours tradition, the joy of building community through performance, and the many ways PJ continues to nurture creativity on and off the stage. It’s an inspiring look at the heart of a true artist who knows how to keep the spotlight shining—long after curtain call.Learn more about PJ Adzima’s “ Stage Time” here: https://stagetimenyc.com/Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
Join Matt and me for Episode 140 as we catch up with our friend, fellow Shenandoah University alum, and Broadway star J. Robert Spencer! You may know him from Jersey Boys and Next to Normal, but today he’s here to talk about hosting the upcoming Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre benefit concert on August 3rd.Plus, we’ll let you know how you can score two FREE tickets to the show!Don’t miss this fun conversation with one of Broadway’s finest—stream it now wherever you listen to podcasts.Get tickets to the SSMT Benefit here:https://tickets.su.edu/25-ssmt-special-events/25-08-ssmt-benefit-concertSupport The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
Join Matt and me for Episode 139 as we let the sunshine in—but only a little—as we revisit the 1979 film adaptation of Hair. While the stage musical is a landmark of counterculture theatre, the movie left us… less than groovy.We talk about what didn’t quite work: the disjointed plot, the lack of emotional connection, and a few choices that left us scratching our heads instead of tossing our hair. That said, there are some bright spots—tremendous choreography, iconic songs, and a few powerful performances that deserve their flowers.If you’re a fan of Hair, you might want to brace yourself. If you’re not, well… you’re not alone. Either way, we dig into the era, the legacy, and why this one didn’t quite hit the high notes for us.Let the sun not completely shine in. 🌥️Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
Join Matt and me for Episode 138 as we dance our way into the high-energy, heart-filled world of Hairspray (2007)! This dazzling movie musical might look like just another retro romp, but don’t be fooled—it’s a Trojan horse of a film, delivering a powerful social message wrapped in a beehive and a beat you can’t ignore.We break down why Hairspray is so much more than catchy tunes and bold choreography. From its infectious optimism to its unwavering call for racial justice and body positivity, this adaptation of the Broadway hit (based on John Waters’ original cult classic) still packs a punch. We celebrate the standout performances, iconic musical numbers, and the way it challenges norms while making you want to dance.You can’t stop the beat—and you won’t want to miss this episode!Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
Join Matt and me for Episode 137 as we slide into our leather jackets and dive into the iconic 1978 film Grease! This one’s the word, folks. From the electrifying opening credits to the carnival finale that defies logic (but who cares?), we’re hopelessly devoted to this movie.We talk about what makes Grease such a standout in the movie musical canon: the endlessly quotable lines, the legendary soundtrack, and the chemistry between John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John that could practically start a grease fire. And of course, we give Rizzo—queen of biting wit and belted ballads—her due. “There are worse things we could do” than spend a whole episode gushing about Grease, and so we do.It’s automatic, systematic, and hydromatic—don’t miss it!Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fanTHANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!
Join Matt and me for Episode 136 as we take a look at Bye Bye Birdie (1995), the made-for-TV adaptation of the beloved stage musical. Featuring a standout cast including Jason Alexander, Vanessa Williams, Chynna Phillips, and Marc Kudisch, this version had all the ingredients for a great revival.While we appreciated the performances and some fun moments throughout, the film as a whole didn’t quite soar for us. We talk through what worked, what didn’t, and how this adaptation compares to other versions of Birdie on stage and screen.Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
Join Matt and me for Episode 135 as we take on Annie (1982), a vibrant and enduring entry in the movie musical canon. With a powerhouse cast including Carol Burnett, Albert Finney, Ann Reinking, Bernadette Peters, and Tim Curry, this adaptation of the Broadway hit brings bold choreography, memorable performances, and timeless songs like “It’s the Hard Knock Life” and “Tomorrow” to the screen.Directed by John Huston, Annie is a strong movie musical that holds up over time. We dig into the film’s direction, its musical highlights, and the cinematic choices that make this Depression-era tale of hope and found family still resonate today.Support The Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
Join Matt and me for Episode 134 as we tackle A Chorus Line (1985), a movie musical that boldly asked, “What if we took a Broadway masterpiece… and made it worse?” Directed by Richard Attenborough (yes, really) and starring Michael Douglas as Zach (also… yes, really), this adaptation swaps out two iconic songs for original numbers that absolutely no one asked for—and makes the whole thing feel more like an 80s street dance audition than a tribute to Broadway’s beating heart.Gone is the original choreography. Gone is the emotional depth. What’s left? Perms, sweatbands, and a lot of bewildered sighing from us. We break down the baffling choices, the missed opportunities, and why this one might just top our list of “what were they thinking?” movie musicals.Support the Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
Join Matt and me for Episode 133 as we take on Les Misérables (2012), Tom Hooper’s ambitious, emotionally raw adaptation of the beloved stage musical. From Anne Hathaway’s unforgettable “I Dreamed a Dream” to the sweeping visuals and live-on-set vocals, this film aimed to bring Victor Hugo’s epic to the screen with intensity and heart.We explore the performances, the directorial choices, and the moments that moved us most (yes, there were tears). Love it or not, this version of Les Mis sparked conversation, captured audiences, and left a lasting impression.Support the Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
Join Matt and me for Episode 132 as we close out our journey through Andrew Lloyd Webber’s movie musicals with the most baffling, bedazzled entry of them all: Cats (2019). Yes, that movie—the one with digital fur technology, floating Judi Dench monologues, and enough odd choices to fill a Heaviside Layer of think pieces.We’re joined by Ryan Halbrook as we unravel what went wrong—and what maybe could’ve gone right. Matt actually really liked it (bless his Jellicle heart), so we promise this isn’t just a cinematic roast. There’s magic somewhere under all that CGI… probably.Support the Conner & Smith Show on Patreon here:https://www.patreon.com/ConnerandSmith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan