In short: This podcast has such great balance. Thoughtfulness & Passion. Humour & respect. Immense theatre knowledge & humility/openness. A genuine voice to rely on. I may not always agree, but I always listen. In Long: Matt is a charismatic, thoughtful, eloquent, earnest host who approaches everything on this show with good faith, love and respect. Because of this, he is able to be honest, funny, informative, and occasionally a little sassy. You will laugh, you will cheer in agreement, you will disagree with vigour, you will love every minute of it. Ultimately, when I listen to this show, more often than not, I am reminded why I love this art form.

Matt refreshingly pulls no punches, provides thorough reviews to shows, and listening to his passion for great art can compel any storyteller to aspire towards making great art.

Fans of musical theatre will join this group and find themselves getting excited for the drop of a new episode, especially if it’s multiple hours in length. I feel so much smarter listening to Matt’s insightful reviews and I love learning much more of the context for broadway lore before I was even around. Like most people I don’t agree 100% with all of Matt’s takes, but I immensely appreciate the time, care, and effort he puts into unpacking the good and bad from various productions. Matt has become my favorite reviewer and the one I can trust most to give an honest and intelligent review. Happy early birthday and I look forward to all that is to come!!

I told myself I'd leave a review when I got caught up with the whole series, but have been putting it off, so here goes.... A year and a half ago I was having a bad day and needed a distraction on a long drive. I pulled up Broadway Breakdown and saw an episode titled "Sutton Foster Made Me Gay" and thought "oh yes this is for me." I lived in NYC until the pandemic sent me home and had been trying to find a way back to the city. Matt's spicy, intelligent and warm-hearted discourse welcomed me like a familiar friend that also challenged me to learn more and jump back into this world. I am happy to report I've been back in New York for a year and the pod has evolved from roadtrip buddy to subway companion, accompanying me to the Lincoln Center Archives, rush lines, and rehearsals for my own shows. What a treat it is to be consistently educated and entertained, while also getting to participate in the analysis of the current Broadway season. Matt, you're a gem and I can say from experience that the Pod is touching peoples lives. Keep spreading your Smile/Sally Murphy/Judy Kuhn inspired Gospel and the disciples will keep following the Theatre Rabbi that you are. Thank you for the hard work you put in, for the humble honestly and for making us theatre nerds feel seen. ♥️

Warning: this podcast may cause you to reevaluate all other podcasts, both in terms of quality and length. You may find yourself frequently telling others about “that podcast” or “Matt said” when discussing a show, theme, plot device, or really anything else. When your non-theater friends say that you “see every show” or “see more shows than anyone they know,” you may feel compelled to correct them and say that you are actually an uncultured [redacted]. Matt takes no responsibility (I assume) for the self-doubt you may feel when he methodically, but respectfully, destroys a show you liked. But he does take all credit when you correctly recognize that a show is great or horrible—and it is incredibly validating when that happens. All jokes aside, this podcast is a masterpiece is thoughtful, intelligent, and entertaining discussion of all things Broadway. I cannot recommend it enough.

This show has become one of my favorite podcasts. I love how Matt doesn’t take himself too seriously when says he’s the most opinionated and least famous, but still takes a lot of time to explain his well thought out opinion. The way he explains all the nuance of a show and the performances is fascinating and entertaining. He brings some sass without being mean, which I find refreshing. He’s so much more than a theatre cutie. He’s well informed and I feel like a better fan of my favorite art form.

I listen to this podcast all the time, and I find it strangely very enjoyable. Matt’s geeky love of all things Broadway has such a sweetness, and he is at his best when he stammers and acts silly and talks about his thwarted relationship with his ex. I like when he interrogates current social trends (reflexively calling things ’cringe’ or ‘problemtatic’) but maintains a thoughtful and respectful and HONEST analysis of culture. My favorite guest of his is Ali Gordon, and i think she should be made a permanent co-host, because she brings out the best in Matt, and shares his omnivorous love of theatre, and is also a huge geek and self-effacing and adorable. Sometimes Matt gets on my nerves, but when he does it is like a little brother grating on your last nerve, but deep down you really love him.

Broadway Breakdown is my favorite new podcast and the fact that there is a huge library to catch up on makes it even better. Matt has that rare ability to be both entertaining and informative all with a conversational presentation that makes it easy to listen to for hours. I also love that he’s not afraid to share unpopular takes and always supports his opinions with care and reason. Also, his willingness to do a Tony nomination episode no matter how early it is makes me happy. We are all thinking these things, so why not have an open discussion about it. A truly fabulous podcast.

I have learned so much about theater through this podcast. The three hour episodes fly by. I don’t agree with a lot of Matt’s opinions but I love to hear a different perspective!

Matt’s reviews showed up on my Instagram feed a year or so ago, and I always found his perspective honest and accurate; eventually, I succumbed and decided to listen to one of his podcasts, and I’m so glad I did. While most episodes clock in at well over three hours, I have found each to be a terrific balance of commentary, history, and humor. I worked in Broadway theater for two years out of college about two decades ago, and Matt’s knowledge of the industry is entirely reminiscent of my experiences, as well as those of the friends I know who are still within it. (I personally relish every episode where he covers a show I worked on back in the day; he provides a great glance backward with the gift of hindsight…just listened to his AIDA episode on the “Problematic?” series…it’s perfection.) Now as primarily an audience member who lives out of town but still tries to see most of the new shows each season, I find his takes on current Broadway and off-Broadway offerings so accurate; oftentimes when I listen to a review after I’ve seen a show, he helps me reframe that experience and brings so much of what was swirling around in my head into greater focus. Of course his reviews have also helped me decide what to skip and what to see. The podcast is a gift to all those who love theater or who want to love theater. (Side note: Check out his play “Yours, Truly.” I watched the entire reading online and found it really endearing as a modern take on some timeless experiences of searching for love and identity.)

I stumbled across this podcast over the summer while trying to figure out why Lempicka was getting critically shredded while my kids couldn’t stop singing along—say what you will, the songs are total bops :). We’re a casual theater-going family, making it to 2-3 shows a year, so plenty of the references in Broadway Breakdown fly right over my head. But that doesn’t stop me from enjoying Matt’s sharp and insightful takes! His reviews have helped us discern what shows are up our alley (or at least avoid a few missteps). As a big podcast fan, my usual lineup leans toward hosts like Peter Attia and David Puder—heavy on the science, light on the sass. Matt, on the other hand, is a delightful change of pace: fun, fiery, and full of personality. Keep doing what you’re doing, Matt—us suburban moms are here for it!

Matt’s saucy (but fair) podcast is my favorite Broadway podcast go-to. I see most musicals each season, and I like that his reviews corroborate much of what I’m thinking in a more articulate manner. His humor, insight, and knowledge work together to present a kitchen-table, conversational podcast that flies by, even during longer episodes. When he wraps up, I inevitably look at my watch, surprised that time flew by. Bravo to him! Best find of my podcast listening experience!

I love this, the reviews are very thoughtful, honest, non biased, and fair. When Matt discusses the shows he has the high energy that makes this podcast so special when compared to other broadway podcasts. As a massive theatre geek myself I love this, keep up the good work 😊😊😊😜😊😊😊

I live far, far away from NYC and Broadway and am a passionate theater lover. The history and knowledge that Matt shares on this show makes me feel like I am connected to the beating heart of theater. His opinions and thoughts, whether I agree with them or not, are well-reasoned and based around trying to make a piece as good as it can try to be. Listening to reviews of shows he’s seen makes me feel like I have access to what’s happening in the theater scene and that is worth its weight unfold! I also love the episodes when he takes a deep dive into particular shows and delves into their histories and unearths details of their creation and development. Bravo, Matt! Love!

I look forward to this podcast and enjoy Matt’s reviews. Even if I sometimes don’t agree with him, I appreciate that Matt makes me think about things from a different perspective.

Matt, I’m an avid theater goer, I see EVERYTHING and I love listening to other people’s opinions on shows. I often agree with your takes and you do very through deep dives. HOWEVER, you do go on and on too long!!! Especially in your introductions. Sometimes I can’t take it and I want to quit. Another thing that drives me crazy was your Tony Review show where you had other people in to discuss with (which I appreciate) but these people had not seen half the shows!!! It drove me crazy!!! How can these people be commenting??? Surely you can find people who have seen 90% of the shows. I’ll volunteer next year if you like🤓

This podcast is the top, one could compare it to an arrow collar, Coolidge dollar, or the nimble feet of Fred Astaire. On a more serious note, this podcast is great for any fan of Broadway and/or musical theater. His deep dives of shows are so intense but you learn so much about the show in addition to Broadway history from the episodes. His knowledge of the great white way is insane but listening to his show you feel as if you’re part of the conversation. Also while episodes are released weekly, the older episodes are re-listenable and worth listening too. Additionally, his knowledge on current Broadway also helps someone stay up to date on all the current news and shows. I was in a bit of a Broadway drought as life got busy with work but after binging his show, I literally said enough is enough and got myself a ticket to my first Broadway show in 6 years. Lastly, the guests he has on his show are all top notch. This show has led me down the Broadway rabbit hole to listening to his guests podcasts and seeking them out. (Shout out to Rob Schneider). Overall great show would recommend to anyone who loves Broadway or musical theater in general. P.S this is more personal, my apartment has never been cleaner because of Matt and this show. Thanks to the run time being 2-3 hours and my ADHD need to constantly be doing something, I clean to his show and next thing you know 3 hours have passed (which felt like 30 minutes) and the place is spotless lol

This is such a great podcast! I found it while searching for info on last season’s Broadway line up after planning a trip to New York with my family! I look forward to every new episode! I love Matt’s knowledge and love of this art form and agree with most of his hot takes! After the results of this past election this podcast is exactly what we need right now! Art and creativity is what unites us! Keep up the good work Matt!

This is a fantastic musical theatre podcast, the 3 hour deep dives are amazing, the reviews of currently running shows are just an added bonus. Matt’s insights are profound, he is always thoughtful, and consistently funny and fun to listen to. A must-listen for Broadway fans! -Forrest

Seriously. You set a timer so you wouldn’t go on with housekeeping too long. I’m 15 minutes in and you’re still yammering.

Great comprehensive view of shows. I generally agree with his takes which is super helpful when picking shows to see!

Even though this is the only Broadway podcast I listen to, I can say hands down it’s the best. You don’t need any others. Matt is well spoken and knowledgeable and it feeds my theatre-nerd soul.

What percentage of your podcast must we listen to you talk about your podcast on your podcast before you talk about what the subject of the episode? It’s too much. Every time I try to listen I end up stopping and deleting.

Matt Koplick’s podcast is a must-listen for anyone who considers theater to be among the highest forms of artistic expression. It should be essential listening for aspiring theater students who might mistakenly believe that American musical theater began with the opening of Wicked. Matt’s deep, academic-level understanding and experiential knowledge of both plays and musicals, along with the material that forms the theater canon, give him a unique perspective. He combines refined sensibilities with sophisticated taste to deliver what I consider some of the most honest, unbiased, and precise analysis available to the general public. Matt has a keen eye for every detail, no matter how small, and his love and respect for theater as an art form shine through in every episode. This makes him not only an entertaining podcast host but also an invaluable resource for both industry professionals and theater enthusiasts alike. His credibility allows him to provide laser-focused, in-depth analysis of the art he so passionately engages with. While I don’t always agree with every take, I deeply respect the thought and passion he pours into each one. Even if you’re the creator of a show that Matt doesn’t praise, you’ll likely recognize the validity of his critique. And if he loves it, you can be genuinely proud, knowing his approval carries weight. His episodes may be sprinkled with microphone gonks, salty language, and more insight into his personal life than you might expect. But this only adds to his humanity and makes him all the more entertaining. I’ll never stop recommending this podcast to true lovers of Broadway theater. Matt’s love and passion for the art he discusses are unmistakable. Yes, his analysis may sometimes run longer than the show itself, but every second is worth it.

Matt is the Jagged Little Pill of Musical Theater podcasters. He’s fun, he’s loud, he’s so 2019, and he sometimes does choreography backward. I kid, but in all seriousness, I really enjoy this podcast! Matt makes me think- specifically whether this is a good/well-crafted show or do I just enjoy it and the distinctions. Thanks for making can’t-miss-content. C U Next Thursday!

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. 😔