The Subtext: Jonathan Spector’s Eureka Moments
This month Brian talks to the Bay Area playwright about the writing process, battling imposter syndrome, and redefining success.
Stories by Brian James Polak
The Subtext: Alexandra Petri Writes Funny
The D.C. columnist and playwright talks about how writing is like making cotton candy, how ‘MILF Manor’ is like Greek drama, and how an editor can help you find the parade.
The Subtext: James Ijames, From Grandma’s Backyard to Broadway
This month Brian talks to the ‘Fat Ham’ playwright about the art-loving family he came from and the communities he’s found in theatre and in Philly.
The Subtext: The Time Kate Tarker Lost Her Paints
The playwright of ‘Montag’ and ‘THUNDERBODIES’ talks about insisting on sustainability, identifying as a writer, and the art of listening.
The Subtext: Eric Reyes Loo Is Earnest and Eager
This month Brian talks to playwright and screenwriter Eric Reyes Loo about his educational and familial journeys, and the elusive definition of success.
The Subtext: How Vichet Chum Measures Success
This month Brian talks to Vichet Chum, writer of ‘Bald Sisters’ at Steppenwolf, about how Texas’s competitive culture shaped him and about how his Cambodian American parents feel about his work.
The Subtext: Kimber Lee Isn’t Cagey About Her Process
This month Brian talks to the author of ‘tokyo fish story’ and ‘brownsville song (b-side for tray)’ about panic, curiosity, and the earned laughs average.
The Subtext: Spenser Davis Wants to Be Part of Something Big
This month Brian talks to the busy writer-director about his background, the supportiveness of Chicago’s theatre scene, and his penchant for large-cast plays.
The Subtext: Callie Kimball’s Maine Event
In this episode, Brian talks to a longtime friend and colleague about her circuitous path from and back to the Pine Tree State, and what that journey has meant for her as a writer.
The Subtext: Where Madeline Sayet Belongs
This month Brian talks to the writer/performer of ‘Where We Belong,’ inspired by her experiences as a Native person loving, studying, then questioning Shakespeare.
