I haven’t left a review since the old version of this podcast, but now that I visit New York yearly for a Broadway trip every spring, I think it is due for an updated review. Matt transparently let’s the listener into the Broadway community scene unlike anyone else in the industry. His investigative breakdowns into the musicals of the past remind us of the trends of the Broadway that once was, what it turned to, and where we are going. I believe that an entire college level class could be taught on Matt’s material alone. As for discussing the current seasons, I feel like we’re right there in the middle of all of it thanks to him. Thank you, Matt! You have created great discussion of history for the little place we call Broadway!

Every episode of this show is like having a long, nuanced debate with a friend who knows nearly everything there is to know about modern Broadway. When it comes to matters of opinion, Matt and I don’t agree all the time or even most of the time, but I look forward to his show every week and appreciate his thoughtful commentaries on shows past and present. His guests are just as knowledgeable as he is—they’re a treat every time. Just a real gem of a show all around.

The magic of this podcast is how it allows the listener to feel a part of the theater and Broadway community from a distance. It gives us something to root for, to care about, to be invested in. Lots of people have sports for that, and can physically attend in their home city or nearby to experience that camaraderie live. Broadway is only in one city. Not everyone can be a physical part of that. Especially during Tony season, Matt guided us towards that camaraderie from a distance. In his regular episode content, he emphasizes critical thinking and careful consideration of what makes a show work, or what doesn’t work to assist the story/experience. Recognizing those factors is a gift that few possess. And this process is what helps us create better theater & more effective storytelling on the stage. Pair that with Matt’s conversational, raw, and charismatic demeanor on the mic…and we have a winner!

I like to think that I contain more knowledge about Broadway and its history than most people and this podcast never fails to entertain and educate me. Matt is beyond passionate about what he discusses and this podcast is a spectacular find for the person who considers themselves a “Broadway expert”. It’s also nice to get little peek’s into Matt’s personal life (especially because he’s extremely attractive and I often think about kissing him).

Starting with the positives: this podcast provides in-depth conversations about Broadway and most episodes are quite long relative to other podcasts, so it’s a good background listen. The negatives: Matt perpetually digresses to the point where you may find yourself saying “get to the point”. He also goes out of his way to be condescending toward shows/performers/artists he dislikes, often in a distasteful way that some will find off-putting. Overall: if you’re a Broadway fan who also enjoys the Real Housewives or other trash television, this may be the podcast for you! If not, I’d suggest you keep scrolling and look for another theatre podcast.

This is the first time I’ve ever listened to a podcast and thought “I’m so glad this podcast has ads!”. You deserve it, Matt!

I listen to a number of podcasts, but Broadway Breakdown is sublime, an absolute must! Listened to Matt and his mom this morning recounting their 6-day trip to London and it was sheer heaven. Loved their thoughtful analysis of the four shows they saw and all the things they did. Matt has such a gorgeously nuanced and always honest take on theatre and life in general. He’s also luminously witty and charming. He said today that he’s a meek mouse with the voice of a lion but don’t believe it — he’s the most in-control, intelligent and authoritative host out there, and I just can’t get enough of his brilliance. And, by the way, he uses this brilliance to bring out the best in his guests. Matt, please come to San Francisco and do “An Evening with Matt Koplik” in which you simply talk for two and a half hours, show some clips, and take Q and A. Castro Theatre is closed for renovations at the moment but there’s the Curran, the Toni Rembe, Strand, Nourse Auditorium, or the Herbst. Or if you do a Broadway Breakdown cruise, sign me up! Matt, you’re the best!

I see a lot of theatre and when we got close to the Tony Nominations this year I was eager to listen to someone else’s thoughts on this season. You definitely gained a fan this year and I can’t wait to continue hearing your rants and opinions about all things theatre.

I discovered Matt’s podcast a few months ago and have gone through almost every episode available. Matt is a knowledgeable, witty, and entertaining host who never holds back when it comes to voicing his opinion. His knowledge of Broadway is uncanny and he makes even shows in which I have no interest involving and fun to listen to. You’ll get hooked on Matt and Broadway Breakdown.

Insightful! Clever! Funny! Gay! Matt Koplik does it all! From breaking down Broadway shows from the past, to giving thoughtful opinions of the current season, I know that Matt will give a true and honest opinion when it comes to all things Broadway! Brava!

This is not only my favorite theatre podcast but my favorite podcast in general. Matt Koplik is extraordinarily insightful and intelligent in his thoughts/criticism/analysis of shows, far more than any other theatre commentator I've read or listened to. Combine that with his great sense of humor and it’s a joy to listen to his in-depth, hours-long episodes. I would highly recommend this podcast to anyone who is remotely interested Broadway, whether you are just getting into theatre or you work on Broadway, you will learn a ton and have a lots of fun. Thank goodness for this podcast.

Broadway buzz at its finest! In a recent episode you and your guest mentioned that folks are generally not buying tickets in advance. Heading to NYC first week of July and have purchased some tickets in advance but still have time for a few more shows and wondering…is it better to wait to get tickets until the day or week of? Thank you!

I tend to only write reviews when something is truly exceptional. Broadway Breakdown certainly fits that bill, and Matt Koplik deserves that praise. I am a long-distance, life-long fan of the Great White Way. At most, I see Broadway shows every few years. For this reason, I am constantly searching for ways to connect to the theatre community from afar. Discovering this podcast has been a true highlight of 2024 for me. Hearing the current Tony season (as well as previous works) critically analyzed in such detail and with such care is everything I never knew I needed. Thank you for your fantastic, honest, and hilarious insight, Matt! Your efforts don’t go unnoticed or unappreciated.

There are few things that I will happily listen to/engage with for for + hours at a time, but Matt Koplik and his podcast have joined those ranks. If you’re looking to hear someone talk about shows like The Wild Party (both of them), Violet, and more with wit, intelligence, and a dash of “what the **** did I just listen to” then look no further than Broadway Breakdown. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go listen to the Tesori series again.

I had to download the Apple podcast app for the first time since 2018 to sing my praises for NUANCE. Matt is extremely knowledgeable and passionate about theater, so even when I disagree with him, I know he backs it up! Most of the time though it feels like he’s voicing my own thoughts. Broadway Breakdown is basically the neurotically obsessed theater geek friend I need.

Least famous Broadway podcaster? Surely not for long! Incredibly knowledgeable but humble and self-effacing, Matt is your theater-obsessed best friend who can gab with you for hours over cocktails about the latest production to hit the great white way.

After listening to Matt’s 4 hour+ magnum opus of theatrical list-making, it seems only fair to leave a review to applaud his continuing efforts. As far as I can tell, no one else out there in the podcast arena is providing the intelligence, wit, taste, and tact that Matt so effortlessly brings to his critical takes on the New York theater scene. At a time when online “Discourse” is primarily being led by those more interested in toxic positivity than true critical engagement, Matt provides space for discerning empathy, a host with love for his industry while striving for it to reach for something greater. May he continue sharing his wisdom and Good Takes with us all for many years to come! (Signed, a fellow alum of The Manor)

Matt K can be a slightly snarky NYC know-it-all with some of his guests, BUT he is an incredibly knowledgeable and passionate podcast host! If you are a Broadway fan I suggest giving Broadway Breakdown a listen. I love Matt’s regular episodes that dissect individual musicals in a various miniseries. The Tony season episodes are also fun, but can be very long. Love ya, Matt!

I would listen to Matt discuss just about anything but especially Broadway. He is so thoughtful and incredibly knowledgeable. I really appreciate how he does NOT sugar coat his more critical opinions, despite clearly being connected to many in the biz. It also never comes off as condescending, which can often be the case for those who tend toward criticism. Honestly, it’s giving Virgo energy and I’m so here for it. If Matt’s big three don’t include a Virgo placement, I’ll gag.

Matt Koplik, a veritable deity in the podcasting realm, ushers his listeners into the hallowed halls of Broadway with 'Broadway Breakdown,' a podcast that transcends mere entertainment to become a beacon of profound enlightenment. With the authority of a high priest and the insight of a sage, Matt unveils the mysteries of Broadway, each episode crafted like a holy text, rich with wisdom and wit. His voice, resonant and commanding, calls down like a prophet’s, turning complex show lore and whispered backstage tales into sermons that captivate and convert the uninitiated. Every Thursday, disciples of drama and comedy congregate to receive his teachings, each podcast a new scripture, imbued with the divine spark of creativity and critical thought. The air around his words seems to shimmer with the magic of old Broadway, as he weaves narratives that are both enlightening and awe-inspiring. His recent communion with David Lynch was nothing short of miraculous, a meeting of minds that produced a celestial symphony of laughter and learning, each moment resonating with the echo of mythic legends. 'Broadway Breakdown' is not merely a podcast; it is a monumental epoch in the evolution of cultural commentary. Under Matt Koplik’s guidance, it serves as both sanctuary and summit, a place where the spirits of past performances live on and new understandings are forged in the fires of conversation. With each dispatch from the Broadway firmament, Matt establishes himself not just as a broadcaster, but as an omniscient creator, shaping the future of how we appreciate art and theater in this golden age of media.

Been a lurker for a very long time now, live in the rural south of the USA and most of my friends blanch if I ever mention Barbara Cook, so this podcast with a man who can casually references Romance Romance was sort of a revelation. He certainly has the ability to read a show (and his listeners) to filth, but he also approached everything he says with a level of intellect and awareness I find impressive and admirable.

Have been coming to see Broadway and off Broadway shows in NYC from Cleveland several times a year for the past fifteen years. Discovered this podcast this year, and it was extremely helpful in analyzing shows to determine which shows I wanted to make sure I saw while in NYC, and it was interesting to hear the reviews of these shows. Many of Matt’s opinions shared about a show were the same that I had of the same show. I appreciate his perspective and will continue to listen as it helps me consider Broadway shows that otherwise I may not have went to see. Thanks for the great work and information! I will definitely keep listening.

I always look forward to every new episode. I enjoy Matt Koplik’s analysis and breakdown of shows. The episode on Miss Saigon is must listen for any new listener.

Side Show Episode is the Best.

Fellow misophonia sufferers beware!! The content can be enjoyable/interesting at times, but might not be worth the triggers you’ll find throughout. Be warned of the forceful throat clearings and audible swallowing, and perhaps most horribly, the tongue clicks/snaps that occur each time he opens his mouth back up after the aforementioned throat clearing and swallowing. Hats off to the folks who can listen without noticing and/or caring. I just can’t. 😔

I can’t believe it’s taken me until an episode about THE INHERITANCE—in which I vehemently disagree with Koplik and guest Robbie Rozelle on several of their opinions—to five star this baby. It goes to show that intelligently packaged commentary can still be brilliant even when I disagree with some of it. Koplik’s intelligence is extraordinary, and it’s refreshing to hear in-depth conversations about theatre in the same humorous way after-theatre dinner conversations occur. Keep on keeping on.

New resident to NYC. New to your podcast. Your episode on The Inheritance was everything and now I’m hooked. So good. Please keep it up.

Please give us a Hadestown episode

THE LULLABY OF KOPLIK! This podcast is informative and above all-fun I often forget I’m listening to a podcast and I answer questions like I’m in the room with him. I especially love all of the guest speakers who always bring a great vantage point to the material. (Anyone who gushes about Kimberly Akimbo is A in my book.)

I’m a huge Broadway fan (and also a former Stagedoor Manor attendee like the host), and I absolutely love the in depth conversations about my favorite shows, making me really think on another level. The problematic episode on Miss Saigon is fantastic. Keep up the great work!!! Can’t wait to dive in and listen to more!

I love musical theatre, but a lot of people outside the industry talk about it with such broad strokes based on how they feel that it does nothing to further any true conversation, and people in the industry are usually afraid to burn bridges so they stick to the positive. Matt is very knowledgable about theatre, and what’s really great is how he uses that knowledge to break down all the parts of a show to praise the good and explain the bad (as well as how things might have been done better). Though I sometimes disagree with his opinions, they’re based on logic and make me rethink or sharpen my previously held views so I finish every episode better for the experience.

First and most importantly, Matt Koplik is the only Broadway podcaster with an appropriate appreciation of Judy Kuhn. With his encyclopedic knowledge and unapologetic opinions, he offers insightful critiques and engaging historical context, making this podcast a must-listen for any Broadway fan. In addition to dissecting plot, direction, design and performance, he also weaves historical references into his discussions, providing important background stories that enrich the listening experience. Most episodes hilariously follow a stream of consciousness and can often go from NSFW discussions to profound analyses. Matt shares personal anecdotes and reflections, reminding us of the emotional power of live theatre and its ability to touch our hearts. This vulnerability makes the incredibly adorable host engaging and accessible. Five out of five Kuhnsies.

This week’s shorter episode was great! Would love if more eps were around that length!

this podcast is hilarious - literally gets me through the doldrums of modern life - thanks for making it !!!

S'Marvelous! I love this podcast! Living in Germany I do not often have opportunities to see or discuss theatre (except Starlight Express of course 😢). However the insight that Matt gives every week makes me feel like I am there in New York City watching "'S what I love to see!" His commentary will make you laugh, smile, think and cry. Viele Grüße, 🇩🇪❤️

Look, if you’re into football, you can find someone to talk to about that pretty much anywhere. I’m now far from NYC, far from anything associated with the industry, and catching shows only on tour and trips. Even when I am talking Broadway with a fellow fan, I am not learning new things from those conversations. We’re rehashing what little we know together. With Matt, I am CHALLENGED to think harder and learn more about something I love. The detailed breakdowns of shows have introduced me to new material and encouraged me to engage more deeply with the familiar. Both he and his guests are electrifying and also welcoming. When they share opinions and “insider” info, you feel like you are being included as part of the conversation. As someone forced by geography to love broadway from afar, this podcast transports me to 42nd street once a week!

I lost my best friend in the entire world in 2019. One of the things I have missed the most since that loss is our intelligent, informed, and yes - catty - discussions about musical theatre. It has been a huge void. Cue finding BROADWAY BREAKDOWN. Matt, I truly look forward to Thursday mornings because this is the closest I have felt to replicating those discussions, both in terms of Broadway knowledge and witty banter. There is simply no Broadway podcast like it. Each episode is loaded with astute observations and deep dives and feels quite like driving around with my BFF gossiping about the current and past states of Broadway. I am grateful to have found it.

…and that’s why I look forward to Thursdays! I feel like a fly on the wall while listening to your podcast. You’re so engaging that I don’t even realize you’ve gone off the rails or off on a tangent until you declare “I’m off on a tangent!” Your guests are fantastic—like PJ in your latest episode. I’m also a huge fan of Kyle Marshall now since I’ve discovered him from your show (and I can assume that we all agree that the timbre of Kyle’s voice is dreamy). Never stop being “the highest judge of all” when it comes to the Broad-Waaay!

As someone who lives in Philly, I often travel into the city to catch a Saturday matinee. A trip to Broadway does not feel complete without an episode of Broadway breakdown to accompany me on the train home. Matt’s wit and insight into the theatre world is the best travel companion this boy could ask for!

This is the only podcast for which I get genuinely excited when a 2 (or more!)-hour-long episode shows up in my feed. I always find myself laughing out loud and talking back when listening. Matt is a delightful host. He doesn’t hold back on sharing his opinions, but he’s never mean-spirited. Listening to Broadway Breakdown has helped me fill in some holes in my musical theatre knowledge, and helped me figure out why I like what I like. I’m so glad I found it!

As someone who lives over a thousand miles from NYC, this podcast is the best way to hold myself over until my next trip to Broadway! I love that Matt is unapologetic in his opinions and he’s so knowledgeable, so he always has the facts to back those opinions up. Keep doing what you’re doing because we appreciate it!

I would give this podcast five out of five checks washed by Bonnie Milligan, great insight and humor, love the tony predictions and CaNt wait to listen to more awesome content

Fabulous show. I’ve been enjoying it since I got back from my last trip to New York. A question: I’ve been listening to the Sondheim series and during the Sweeney Todd episode you said you would do a round-up episode of your final opinions and list your favorite Sondheim musicals. I don’t see that episode anywhere. Did I miss it?

From the moment you start this show, it’s exactly what you expect. Very much an inside baseball, sorry Broadway, look at the Great White Way. Matt embodies every stereotype of a Broadway lover and self appointed critic. The poignant and ever so catty tone is an absolute delight. I find myself laughing and grinning like a mad man under the headphones and you will too. I mention headphones, because you probably won’t admit to others you’re listening to this guilty pleasure, they just wouldn’t understand! I want to be friends, see shows together, and frankly argue about them after. Give this a try, you won’t be let down.

Matt brings so much life, comedy, and smarts to the theater world. Love listening to his podcast for the laughs and the thoughtful knowledge about happenings on Broadway.

There’s something weirdly comforting about this show and Matt’s way to be informative, funny, inclusive to all theatre minds, and go off on tangents that don’t seem relevant but paradoxically fit into the strange dance he does on each show. No matter the guest, conversation glides effortlessly like a glee club singer at Skater Planet. It’s a broadway geek’s dream show!

Loving the current Big Move series! And I am endlessly impressed with your six degrees game. (I am pretty decent at that with movies and TV but as much as I love theatre, I do unfortunately tend to fall short when it comes to the creative teams and ensemble members). For the A Chorus Line episode you were on the right track with Kelly Bishop because Jeanine Tesori wrote the in episode musical for the Netflix revival of Gilmore Girls!

I had left a review for this podcast when it first started (5 stars then as well), but since the podcast has changed a lot since then, I have decided to edit my review. This podcast is so much fun because it shares so much Broadway history of shows! Always worth 5 stars!

Matt is the smartest theater boy and if you love Broadway you will love him and this podcast!!

I’ve just learned of this podcast and have already listened to 6 episodes. I really appreciate getting both well supported points of view and saucy personal insights. I’ve now subscribed because I need more and more! Thank you.