Disabled & Dramatic: A Phamaly Theatre Company Podcast

Jessica Swanson (Actor in Phamaly Theatre Company)

Today's guest is Jessica Swanson (she/her), an actor and featured dancer with Company. In this episode, Jessica reflects on her long journey toward the Phamaly stage, the people who shaped her, her love of dancing, and her views on making rehearsal spaces more inclusive. Please join us for an enthusiastic, upbeat discussion about boldly embracing the stage, no matter who you are. Phamaly Theatre Company presents Little Women, adapted by Erin Riley — Directed by Shelly Gaza, this adaptation captures the intimacy and vibrancy of the novel through a theatricality that is both timeless and newly alive. Audiences of all ages will be swept into a world of heart, resilience, and the enduring power of family and Phamaly. This literary masterpiece takes the stage at Northglenn Arts from March 19 to April 4. Tickets and accommodation info can be found at Phamaly.org. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (01:12) Jessica's Journey to Phamaly Theatre (10:11) Navigating Disability in Theatre (13:18) Why "A Chorus Line" Matters (16:29) A Dancer Dances (21:50) Future Aspirations in Theatre (27:07) Inclusivity in Denver Theatre (32:14) Advice for Disabled Artists (35:06) How to Support Jessica (38:54) What's Next at Phamaly Theatre Company? Transcript: In Progress

Mark Dissette (Artist in Phamaly Theatre Company)

Today's guest is longtime Phamaly director, actor, writer, historian, and board member Mark Dissette. Mark shares about his 36-year career with the disability-affirmative theatre company, the truths he has realized, and the perseverance of theatre. Please join us in this thoughtful and eye-opening discussion in this latest episode. Phamaly Theatre Company presents Dance Nation by Clare Barron — a bold, provocative, Pulitzer Prize-nominated play that’s shaking up the stage October 9–19 at The People’s Building in Aurora, CO. Step into the chaotic, exhilarating world of a preteen dance team chasing their shot at the national finals. Fierce moves, big dreams, and raw honesty — this isn’t the competition you remember. Tickets are on sale now at Phamaly.org. This show contains mature content.  Episode Transcription: https://app.notta.ai/share/ca6f4783-666e-4b85-87f1-f1e787f8f4ef?lang=en-US&t=1b7277f0e33e9153e5faacb4249b2f89

Trenton Schindele (Actor in Phamaly Theatre Company)

Today's guest is Phamaly actor Trenton Schindele (any), a frequent face seen in villainous roles on the Denver stage. In this episode, we discuss the psychology of playing villains and outcasts, the ability of theatre to bring one's personality into the open, and how audiences and disabled people connect with the characters who feel like outsiders. Please join us in this thoughtful conversation while possibly twirling your devious mustache. This August, join Phamaly Theatre Company for Pippin—a bold journey of self-discovery set to Stephen Schwartz’s unforgettable music. Performed by Phamaly’s renowned cast of disabled actors, Pippin shines with heart, humor, and the search for your “corner of the sky.” August 7–24 at the Kilstrom Theatre, Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets at ⁠phamaly.org⁠ [http://phamaly.org/]. Presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International. Pippin Music by Stephen Schwartz Book by Roger O. Hirsorn Originally Produced on Broadway by Stuart OstrowOriginally Directed on Broadway by Bob Fosse2013 Broadway revival directed by Diane Paulus. PIPPIN is presented through Music Theatre International (MTI). Episode Transcription: https://app.notta.ai/share/1ff51a59-fa1a-4aa5-a5bb-dacd5da92299?lang=en-US&t=7e9eee8ec2f12f3ac4c54d882b4604c0

Amy Marie Stewart (Actor in Phamaly Theatre Company)

Today we're meeting Amy Marie Stewart (she/her), a freshly debuted actor with Phamaly Theatre Company! Amy came to Phamaly's production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee with a rich background in opera, vocal coaching, writing, and a love for musical theatre. Amy shares her long journey of self-acceptance and affirmation in receiving her diagnosis of Parkinson's and being "enough" to create Art. Join us in welcoming Amy back to Colorado and exploring how disability incorporates into performance art! Note: This episode was recorded before Phamaly's production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee in March of 2025. This August, join Phamaly Theatre Company for Pippin—a bold journey of self-discovery set to Stephen Schwartz’s unforgettable music. Performed by Phamaly’s renowned cast of disabled actors, Pippin shines with heart, humor, and the search for your “corner of the sky.” August 7–24 at the Kilstrom Theatre, Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets at phamaly.org [http://phamaly.org/]. Presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International. Pippin Music by Stephen Schwartz Book by Roger O. Hirsorn Originally Produced on Broadway by Stuart Ostrow Originally Directed on Broadway by Bob Fosse 2013 Broadway revival directed by Diane Paulus. PIPPIN is presented through Music Theatre International (MTI). Episode Transcription: https://app.notta.ai/share/86381578-9d62-425a-8159-ab1845b176e6?lang=en-US&t=81095aa12548a19b94eb39095a4aa8b8

Keenan Gluck (Actor in Phamaly Theatre Company)

Today, we speak with Keenan Gluck (he/him), a rising actor in Phamaly and the Denver theatre scene. Keenan talks about how he found expression and community in theatre, how he maneuvers his power chair to discover characters, and the discoveries he's made as an actor and a person. Join us as we reminisce on past projects and navigate the Denver theatre scene! Join us for Phamaly's Broadway Ball Fundraiser on Saturday, May 3rd, at 5:00 pm! Tickets are $40 and include dinner from Sam's No. 3, an open bar of beer, wine, and nonalcoholic drinks, a photo booth, performances, and a musical theatre dance party! Purchase tokens at the door for additional games. Can't attend the fundraiser but still want to support? Bid on silent auction items from anywhere, or donate to the cause! Phamaly opens Pericles: An Adaptive Performance for People with Cognitive Disabilities on Wednesday, May 7th! Touring in Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Aurora, join us for this interactive, heartfelt, and playful production for people with cognitive disabilities featuring Flute Theatre of London! Have a cognitive disability? Join us on stage! Participant tickets are $25, and observer tickets are $15. Episode Transcription: https://app.notta.ai/share/6616c752-9a13-4e17-9c03-49e9d746ac19?lang=en-US&t=d0071357a6356407d203469ca509ae8b