StageStreams: your FREE guide to the best Broadway video content When Music Says One Thing and Means AnotherHoward Ho breaks down the musical move that tricks your ear—and your heart.StageStreams is and always will be FREE. Why not subscribe?The Chord That Fakes You Out Howard Ho breaks down the musical concept of deceptive cadences—those sneaky turns in harmony that leave your ears hanging. With examples like OutKast’s “Hey Ya” and the Lin-Manuel Miranda-penned “We Got You” (featuring composer Helen Park) from his new concept musical The Warriors, Ho explores how unexpected musical resolutions can mirror emotional manipulation and hidden meanings in lyrics. It’s a fascinating listen for musicians, theater lovers, and anyone who enjoys a twist in the tune.
10 Sharp Details in Sunday in the Park with George This video from our newsletter’s publisher, The Broadway Maven, highlights ten rich, often-overlooked moments that make Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park with George a masterpiece of form and feeling. From the metaphor of commas to the dual meaning of “finish the hat,” this is essential viewing for any Sondheim fan—or anyone who's ever struggled to balance creation and connection. When Broadway’s Morals Go Off Script On his Real Time HBO Show, Bill Maher skewers the current trend of musicals about controversial figures in a segment that’s equal parts comedy and critique. Starting with the real-life murder suspect who inspired a new musical, he pitches hilariously fake titles like Hello, Dahmer! and Osama Mia. It’s a sharp (and satirical) look at where entertainment draws its lines—or doesn’t. Casting, Culture, and the Future of Jewish Theater In this thoughtful interview with Jonah Platt, composer Jason Robert Brown opens up about Jewish identity and representation in musical theater. From the casting of Parade to the legacy of The Last Five Years, Brown discusses what it means to be culturally authentic onstage and how Jewish voices shaped—and continue to shape—the heart of Broadway. Channel Spotlight: Ben DanielsLooking for a fresh voice in film and theater commentary? Meet Ben Daniels, whose brand-new channel dives into camp films, queer cinema, musicals, and more—all with humor, heart, and a personal twist. From movie reviews to physical media hauls to theater vlogs, Ben is building a space for anyone who loves storytelling with flair. We're thrilled to be among the first to spotlight his work—join the ride from the very beginning! Can you suggest a channel for a future Spotlight (yours or someone else’s)? If so, hit reply to this newsletter with a link and explanation of why it should be chosen. NOTE: StageStreams will be selecting four all-new videos per month to highlight (in addition to the channel spotlight). If you'd like to ensure your video is included as well, or otherwise want to reach our 11,000 readers, please reach out to publisher DavidBenkof@gmail.com for promotional and sponsorship opportunities. Thanks for reading StageStreams! Subscribe for FREE to get regular updates about the latest videos from YouTube and beyond. StageStreams is edited by Dan Berlfein, a 25-year-old Broadway fan, composer, and music student studying composition and music production at Rimon School of Music in Israel. Dan was a Fall 2024 Maven Scholar for The Broadway Maven, which publishes StageStreams. Come hear the people sing at a FREE class on Les Misérables on Tuesday, June 10 at Noon and 7 pm. This is the first of three Les Miz classes (the other two are Members-only) that explore the show from dozens of angles small and large, from the musical’s motifs to its stellar international reception to the show’s sweeping grand themes. Great news! First-time Members who join The Broadway Maven can get 30 days FREE at the link below. Normally $18, a one-month Membership comes with invitations to 5-15 classes and other expert-led Broadway experiences. In the case of the next 30 days, that means four meetings of The Broadway Institute, a meeting of Sondheim Academy (Pastiche in Sondheim), two classes on Les Misérables, and the Tonys Watch Party. Cancel at any time, or continue exploring Broadway with this vibrant educational community. It’s your home for Broadway appreciation. The Broadway Maven YouTube channel has nearly 500 videos, including more than 75 on Stephen Sondheim alone! The Broadway Maven also publishes MARQUEE, a FREE must-read substack Broadway appreciation newsletter. Every Thursday, 10,300 subscribers receive essays, reviews, Piano Talks, YouTube gems, quizzes, games, surveys, “Broadway Blasts,” and more. |




