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Adventures in Theater History: Philadelphia

Exploring the deep and fascinating history of theater in the City of Philadelphia

Recent Episodes

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116. Albert Innaurato and "Gemini"
Jan. 23, 2026

116. Albert Innaurato and "Gemini"

The story of Albert Innaurato and his play "Gemini." Set in South Philadelphia in the 1970s, it was to become the biggest commercial and artistic triumph of his career.
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115. Abigail Adams and Marcia Saunders at People's Light
Jan. 11, 2026

115. Abigail Adams and Marcia Saunders at People's Light

The director Abigail Adams and the actress Marcia Saunders talk to us about their artistic home at People's Light in Malvern.
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114. Brian Anthony Wilson
Dec. 21, 2025

114. Brian Anthony Wilson

The Philadelphia actor Brian Wilson talks with us about his life and career as an African-American theater in the Quaker City.
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113. Chris & Louis Lippa: A House Remembered is Never Dark
Dec. 7, 2025

113. Chris & Louis Lippa: A House Remembered is Never Dark

The life and work of the late Louis Lippa, the Philadelphia playwright and actor - and about his son Chris' vision to make a home for the history of theater.
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112. Encore Episode: The Walls of Walnut Street
Nov. 21, 2025

112. Encore Episode: The Walls of Walnut Street

A reprise of our 2023 interview with Bernard Havard of the Walnut Street Theatre - including a tour of the historic building.
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111. Interview: Bruce Graham
Nov. 7, 2025

111. Interview: Bruce Graham

A conversation with the writer, actor and teacher Bruce Graham (or as he as often been called, "Philadelphia's Favorite Playwright").
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Recent Blog Posts

Dec. 21, 2025

King Brian the First - Episode 114

King Brian the First - Episode 114
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Nov. 7, 2025

Newspaper feature stories about "Philadelphia's Favorite Playwright" - Episode 111

Newspaper feature stories about "Philadelphia's Favorite Playwright" - Episode 111
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Oct. 24, 2025

Philadelphia Festival Theatre - Episode 110

Philadelphia Festival Theatre - Episode 110
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Reviews

Fun and informative!

"Great Listening. Peter graciously expresses his enthusiasm for the subject with each anecdote he tells. Like a seasoned storyteller, Peter shares such interesting facts with style. And this is well r…"

tg53 | Aug. 16, 2022

Driving Under the Influence of Adventures in Theatre History: Philadelphia. ;)

"Well, my wife Bonnie and I finally binged your entire Adventures in Theatre History: Philadelphia podcasts. We'd jump in the car; fire up Apple Podcast; tune in; and drive around LA listening to your…"

Jim Lambert | Sept. 1, 2025

Well Researched and Compelling

"Fascinating history I had never heard before. Such good use of historical records combined with thoughtful analysis and entertaining delivery."

Lauren I | Dec. 27, 2022

Informative, enlightening, and engaging

"Peter Schmitz’ deeply researched podcast uncovers important moments in Philadelphia theatre history, providing helpful context and insights, as well as resources for those of us interested in further…"

AngelPirateNY | Jan. 14, 2023

Wow!!!

"This second season of this podcast is fantastic. The episodes on Hammerstein’s Opera House are well-paced with compelling details about the growing culture of theater in Philadelphia in the early 190…"

Mary Santen | Feb. 10, 2023

Izzy

"Agree with other reviewers. This podcast sheds light not only on Phila theatre history — this is American theatre history. The generational lines reach to present day Drew Barrymore and others. A…"

Izzy’sFried | Oct. 24, 2023

Just terrific

"It IS just terrific!!"

Bob Goren | Oct. 21, 2023
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