Episode Details

Jeffrey Seller helped bring "Rent" to Broadway and launched "Hamilton" into history, redefining what a musical can be. Now, he’s telling his own story in his candid new memoir, "Theater Kid."
Host Patrick Pacheco sits down with the legendary four-time Tony Award-winning producer who discovered Jonathan Larson, believed in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s vision for "In the Heights" and "Hamilton," and helped create the Broadway rush ticket system that democratized theatergoing. Seller’s shows have earned 22 Tony Awards, grossed over $4.6 billion worldwide, and been seen by more than 43 million people.

From the intimate conversation:
-How a chance encounter with Jonathan Larson's "Boho Days" (later "Tick, Tick… Boom!") led to the "Rent" phenomenon
-The brutal honesty behind giving creative feedback: “I don't understand the story... you have to tell the story”
-Why "In the Heights" felt like “being embraced by warm Caribbean water”
-The devastating impact of Larson’s death just hours before "Rent’s" first preview
-How word-of-mouth still trumps marketing: “Once you get 50,000 people to see your show, your future is set”
-Broadway’s biggest challenge: the “cost disease” that makes tickets increasingly expensive
Plus, exclusive insights on:
-Ending professional relationship with his longtime producing partner Kevin McCollum before "Hamilton"
-“The Last Ship" with Sting didn’t succeed commercially—despite his belief in the project
-The emotional catharsis of writing about growing up poor in "Cardboard Village"
-How the audiobook of "Theater Kid" features Broadway stars like Danny Burstein, Lindsay Mendez, and Darren Criss

Your guide to affordable Broadway in 2025:
CUNY TV production intern Vincent Allen (a CUNY senior studying advertising and public relations) teams up with Andrew Block from the Theater Development Fund to reveal insider secrets for seeing Broadway without breaking the bank.

-From digital lotteries you can enter on your phone
-To TDF memberships offering tickets for just $11–$60 (TDF Membership Qualifications)
-Plus rush tickets, standing room options, and the iconic TKTS Booth in Times Square
-Whether you're a student, a lifelong theater lover, or just trying to see your first Broadway show—this is your roadmap to making it happen.

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