Stage Combat The Podcast

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What happens when actors stop being quiet and start speaking up:  Season 3 of "Stage Combat The Podcast" premiering on July 23rd!   Stage Combat is about fighting back when we are mistreated in our workplaces, no matter what stage we may be on in our lives!  Hosted by attorney/advocate/actor Sean Hayden.

In 2019, Sean Hayden thought he had booked the role of his dreams as an actor at the prestigious Goodspeed Opera House in its production of "Billy Elliot, The Musical."  As he drove over the Connecticut river and laid his eyes on the fairy tale Opera House for the first time, Sean had no idea what would be looming behind its doors.   Or that a mental health crisis caused by his work conditions would cause him to investigate and reexamine his entire life. In the style of a true crime podcast, Sean boldly took us, in Seasons 1 and 2, into the insular world of the theatre industry in which the unspoken rule is, “You are not supposed to speak up. Or there will be consequences.”   And he claimed his story. 

In response to Sean's story, listeners of the podcast everywhere responded saying they felt seen, heard and validated.  And now in Season 3, Sean is telling the stories of those listeners as they claim THEIR stories.

Biweekly episodes. 

Recent Episodes

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Recent Reviews

singingcynic

Breaking the silence

STAGE COMBAT is a riveting, life-changing listen for anyone who’s ever been involved in theatre, and eye-opening for anyone curious about the lives of performers and the institutions they were for. The first season is compulsively listenable, as host Sean Hayden investigates the events that led to his mental health crisis at a major regional theatre. The community Stage Combat has crated by breaking the silence and shame surrounding mental health and institutional abuse in the theatre community will have an impact far beyond this well-produced, nuanced podcast.
ituneswtf

Great for theatre professionals like me, enlightening for anyone

If you’re in the theatre industry, the first two seasons are straight TEA with a little dessert too. I would listen to this podcast and then record summaries to send to my friends, reporting to them live from Snapchat and urging them to listen for the tea, too. The dessert? Solidarity. Theatre workers are often exploited, and this podcast is both a reminder that we don’t have to be and a guide for making changes in our workplaces. Anyone outside of the industry can listen to this podcast and learn more about “those artsy people” and the work we do, the dignity we deserve, and maybe think more critically about where they see live entertainment. Ask a theatre professional about the theatres in your area, and listen to what they have to say about the kind of place it is to work.
AdAstraPA

A story that needs to be told

A captivating dive into the ugly inner workings and mismanagement of personnel at a renowned Tony Award-winning theatre, its dangerous effects on employees’ mental health — and what happens when the abused dared to speak up or fight back. While a theatre audience usually only gets to see the finished product as it reaches them across the footlights, this tale is different. It takes us backstage — into auditions and casting, rehearsals, previews, opening night and beyond, as its sad yet fascinating tale of abuse and mistreatment unfolds. I couldn’t believe my ears at first and could hardly wait until the next episode - but I also had to “come up for air” from time to time since it was heartbreaking to learn about the sheer incompetence of this storied theatrical institution and the suffering endured by the protagonist. This is an important story and one that deserves to be widely shared - not just for fans of theatre, but for anyone who knows what it’s like to be bullied or “othered” and recognizes the need for a broader discussion of mental health in our society. May this podcast be a catalyst for change in the theatre industry and beyond. Thank you, Sean, for shining your light.
ChuckyB12

Hard to take seriously (sadly)

It’s really sad that this podcast was VERY overproduced and WAY overdramatized. Congrats on getting your “clicks” though. I sense that’s what you were really going for here anyway. It’s really hard to take these events and anything Sean says seriously, which should be a very important topic. How about instead of trying to get Goodspeed to come on the podcast (which you like to remind us during every episode) to counter your tellings let’s hear Chad’s side of the story.
Anonymous7563

If you need to tell your story. This is the place for you.

I was sent this show by a colleague. I have been employed by the Goodspeed Opera House. I worked closely with the SM BRADLEY G SPACHMAN. He was the reason I had to quit. This story made me feel less insane. Even if you don’t have as strong connection to the story - this story will hit you in the feels and will inspire you. Sean’s resilience is contagious and he tells a gripping story. Anyone who struggles with mental health (theatre or not!) will receive many good informational nuggets from the post show talk backs. Send this to all your friends and family!
musiclover2785

Important podcast is a must-listen!

Stage Combat: The Podcast is a creative, educational, and well-produced series. Sean Hayden is such a wonderful advocate for mental health in the theater and he inspires necessary conversation in the industry. When production teams prioritize profits over people the cost is human suffering. Sean directly addresses this issue by speaking about his workplace nightmare and unpacking his personal story with several therapists and mental health professionals. I’ve followed Sean’s journey through seasons 1
Mike So Serious

Putting the spotlight on an under-discussed issue.

This podcast is riveting! Episodes are clearly defined and never too long .. perfectly lean storytelling! The accompanying followup discussions with experts are just as interesting as the main story being told.
mjwadd

A Spotlight on Mental Health

Stage Combat is a brilliantly crafted podcast, and what I think should be required listening for any theatre professional or dedicated theatre-goer. The fear of speaking up or out can label an actor as difficult, ungrateful or worse yet, replaceable. Sean Hayden’s journey as a lead actor at a highly regarded theatre is a true account to what many actors have experienced. Sean’s story of his own mental health crisis during a performance seems unbelievable. I applaud his courage to not be silenced, but to shine light and solutions on how we can collectively change attitudes and practices towards mental health at all theatres.
Hears_who

Absolutely transfixed

This podcast is every actor’s worst nightmare and shows how “the show must go on” affects actors, production staff and the health of self and relationships. I both love and hate listening to it. Sometimes it’s a bit too real as this gaslighting could happen to anyone. I commend Sean for this courage to share this story, and I hope other actors will find inspiration to stand up for their needs and also find useful ways to navigate hardship by listening to this. Thank you.
ComicKev

Had to keep listening!

This podcast felt so raw and universal. While my heart was heavy from everything going on, I had to go on this journey. I felt it was so appropriate to highlight the mental heath aspect and really make that conversation a focus.
Rollercoastercub

A Well told and riveting story

This was a well told and riveting story about one actor's experience with a true bully AND the a****holes who enabled the situation. I recommend it to anyone in the theater, anyone who struggles with mental health issues, and anyone who has felt helpless in a bullying situation.
Productionkat

Bravo!

Great look at the darker side of the entertainment industry and why it’s so hard for employees to speak up.
Chrismichx

Mental health matters!!!!

Thank you Sean and team for sharing this haunting, true experience. Everyday actors and performers face backlash for speaking up about our basic human safety and rights, so brave stories like Sean’s are crucial to make change in this industry. The storytelling and theatrical nature of this podcast are incredibly thrilling and engaging!! I recommend Stage Combat: A Mental Health Story to EVERYONE!❤️
widad999

I binged two seasons in one day.

Helpful, relatable an amazing podcast
Logan the Awesome!

Vital Listening for Everyone in the Arts

This podcast hit home for me and it has changed the way I operate as a theatre artist. My primary concern— above all— is safety in the theater and making sure that everyone’s voice can be heard.
GTinNYC

Mental Health Must-Listen

This is a witty, fun and deeply moving mental health story that is a must-listen for everyone, but especially those working in the entertainment industry. It’s personal, powerful and empowering.
yr bro Shane

Interesting Story, Strange Production

I wanted to leave off a star rating because I don’t know what to think about this one. The story being told is actually riveting, familiar, heartbreaking. But the propensity of production choices piled on top of that story are genuinely suspicious. A relatively short tale is brutally stretched over way too much time, with non-stop repetition of the same points over and over, and frankly cringey audio effects overlaid. It feels melodramatic and manipulative, which is disappointing because the story at the heart is one I am inclined to believe and take seriously (and would have believed without any question at all if not for all the bells and whistles in evidence). Hayden is giving a HARD, polished sell, which is a HUGE turnoff for the subject at hand and makes me wonder what the other side is. He would do better to give us the facts, nothing but the facts, and leave the audio editing for scripted narrative fiction.
CMY✨

So needed and important

Mental health can still be such a hard topic to discuss. Performers are asked to do so many things and the mental toll is not often addressed. This is a must listen in my opinion!
B.Edwards

A look into dark truths, and the resilience we gain

This show is a must listen for everyone in the industry. Not only are these kinds of things rampant, but they have been pushed under the rug for far too long. Sean and the team have crafted an appealing and honest narrative, one that is at the same time hopeful and revealing. You are left realizing your place in the machine, and also realizing that you have the capacity to change it for the better. This kind of show is a cry for solidarity and a reminder that we are stronger together, and that our mental health is more important than someone else’s bottom line.
Bartender in the Gig Life

Incredible Story, Incredibly Told

I think every actor has at some point felt unsafe, unheard, unprotected and obligated to keep quiet and “just be grateful for the opportunity,” at every level, from student films to Broadway and beyond. This is not unique to actors, and while we can especially relate to that element of it, honestly, this is a story for everyone, in any profession. We’re all feeling this right now. Gaslit into being grateful for the opportunity to be exploited. I’m hooked, completely, as it is not only a very compelling story but also one that is very well told.
Shaunnyboy

Fantastic mental health journey account…

Really fascinating dove into the world of regional theater in America. This story is, unfortunately, no unlike other stories I’ve heard at other theaters. And the overall topic of mental health being discussed is handled with incredible care with the professionals that are brought on to speak at the end of each episode. The receipts are provided and it’s appalling what the theater did. And even more so that these theater administrators still have their jobs and even worse THAT SOME HAVE BEEN PROMOTED to HIGHER positions. Yikes. A safe space was not created by the theater and yet they fire an actor who suffered from the environment they created. Such a shame. I love/hate hearing this story unfold. I love that it’s told in a compelling way, but also hate that this is a true story. This is a must-listen for anyone who partakes in theater, in any capacity, so that we all learn how to create safe spaces and support artists and people with mental health issues.
C Joseph S

A MUST listen for anyone who wants to know what really goes on behind the curtain

As a recovering actor myself, this podcast helped me feel seen - in its honesty and candor and a truthful retelling of the abuse Sean felt in the very place he was tasked to be his most vulnerable. His story of a show biz culture of perpetuated workplace trauma — and the fear of speaking out, or even standing with those who do speak out, culminates with the toll it takes on his own mental health and the very core of his sense of SELF. (And the fact that no mainstream theatrical publication will pick up this story, out of fear or loyalty?? is proof that it’s a discussion that every creative power in the theater must have.)
noahhhhh937472927

Wow

It’s appalling how Goodspeed and the creative team handled this. I hope this gets lots of attention. There should be more widespread conversation around this. They should offer a statement.
bvkplmd

A very important conversation!

All theatre professionals should listen.
Katiethibby

Groundbreaking

I am on the edge of my seat waiting for each episode. Mr. Haywood’s narration feels like I’m there with him. His honest discussion of his mental health crisis is groundbreaking. It is another step to normalizing mental health and addressing it without shame. I must admit that I’m desperate for this story to end with his vindication. The powers that be at “that theatre” were unprofessional to say the least.
Pete from Princeton

Captivating

I’ve discovered this podcast while listening to DRAMA with Connor & Dylan MacDowell—and I’m so glad I did. The storytelling is fantastic. I am completely intrigued. I am only a few episodes into season 1 but I can’t wait to listen to more. It’s good on so many levels.
siradamjames

Dynamic, vulnerable, and necessary!

This podcast is incredibly addictive and deals with some heavy themes in a very entertaining and digestible way. Sean bares his heart and soul, while also finding the humor in moments. He then goes one step further by hosting mental health talkbacks at the end of every episode with a licensed therapist. Thank you for speaking up about your experiences, Sean. You’re definitely opening the door for more conversations about mental health in theatre.
K. Ham Adams

Binge-worthy! Could not stop listening

Sean tells his powerful story in the most compelling way. It’s a theatre story told with the intensity of your favorite true crime documentary. I binged the whole thing immediately upon learning about it. The professional theatre industry is most certainly full of similar stories and I hope Sean’s story shines a light on those hundreds of other dark corners in the industry as well. As a theatre fan and mental health professional, I am glad this podcast exists and hope it leads to better mental and physical workplace safety for all theatre professionals.
The_Sleeper

A must for all theater makers

Intriguing and sincere. So glad we are finally opening up to the demands of theater and a toll the business can take on one’s mental health. Thanks Sean and to the whole team behind this necessary unveiling of theater’s behind-the-scene.
jmgoul

A Favorite to Listen To

Sean’s story is heart wrenching to listen to, but the way he and his team have told his story gives you a chance to breathe and digest the abuse he suffered. Each episode ends with a roughly 10 minute conversation between Sean and Dr. Alisa Hurwitz where they discuss the primary psychological problem in the episode, and it helps you to decompress. Thank you to Sean for being brave to share his story and making it into a 5-star podcast!
tapping23

Don’t be silent

Every performer needs to listen to this Pod. We are continually told that we need to advocate for ourselves while also being told not to be “difficult”. This shines a light on that struggle and when jobs for most actors can be few and far between our silence and compliance is built into these organizations bottom line. I applaud Sean for his and his family’s bravery in telling this story. Everybody should be talking about this.
Actup1891

Terrifying

Scary that the mechanisms in place didn’t spare Sean from an unhinged fellow actor. He is brave to tell this story.
AmbySharp

Thanks dude

Thank you so much for your bravery. Luv luv. Thank you for sharing your experience.
ZPaps

Thank you, Sean.

This kind of vulnerability is where it’s at. This is what it means to be a human being and to heal others through the sharing of one’s own trauma. Sean should never have had to go through this. And the truth cannot be silenced anymore. Please give this podcast a listen.
Dpost048

Really enjoyed this

Sean is a talented performer and this a fascinating story.
Jakob1033

Excellent

As an actor and a podcaster I am very impressed by the narrative presentation of this show. I really appreciate all the honesty and thought that goes into Stage Combat.
kristenvang

A courageous sharing

This podcast is a must listen for anyone in the live entertainment world. It’s a courageous sharing of what happens all too often. Kudos to Sean for sharing his story. And for doing it in such an informative, elegant, authentic way. Looking forward to season two.
kungpow9960

Very compelling and interesting!

This podcast really captures the many ups and downs of being an artistic professional. People often tell us not to take things personally in our careers, but that’s so difficult (as Sean explains in such great detail, with excellent clarity). I’m only two episodes in, and I can’t wait to keep listening!
Chipsi50

What is happening!

Every week you are asked what is happening at the Goodspeed! The production is amazing. The voice acting is so well done. The story has so many twists. I love the follow up after the show.
KampFIRE!

Great for theater lovers and mental health advocates alike

Dive deep into the world of the Goodspeed opera house where the production of Billy Elliot goes awry. A vivid exploration of how negligence and “old school ways” lead to one man’s mental health breakdown despite repeated asks for help. Told like a true crime podcast, this one is perfect for theater lovers, mental health advocates and true crime aficionados.
TotesFionz

Can’t wait for season 2!

Definitely recommend to anyone involved in the theater and/or mental health community.
Jennszak

Phenomenal and validating

As an actor who took time off to restore her mental health, this podcast listen was a must. Sean’s story is just one of many in this industry, and a subject that demands attention. Actors are subjected to a wild lifestyle and are just expected to handle it all but we’re only human. Sean’s story really dives into his experience and really helps us to understand how challenging these issues can be. Actors can definitely learn a lesson or two from him. His words are powerful and as an artist really resonate. Thank you for advocating for mental health rights and not letting your light be dimmed from your experience!!
stuffmamasays

Must listen

Incredibly important, brave, vulnerable look at inside the theater industry.
Joey42

Riveting story about mental health

When I finished the first season, I felt like I was coming up for air. The podcast uses Sean’s skill as an actor to immerse the listener in a world that few know with a powerful story of a great opportunity on the stage spiraling into a mental health nightmare. I cannot wait for season 2!
Matty pdx

Listen, learn, and trust

Sean Hayden is truly being vulnerable and focused and alive. I don’t know how anyone could give this less than five stars. Vulnerability and talking about mental health is what the world needs right now.
littleshop24

Must Listen

This is a must listen for any theater artist. So many of us have been in similar situations. It’s so important that we speak out and I applaud Sean for sharing his story. Hopefully this will lead to more folks speaking out and more support from organizations when it comes to these matters.
ShortTuffStuff

A Beautifully Produced Podcast.

Man…One thing I love about us theater kids is we know how to tell a story. This was an immersive and intriguing listen about something so many can relate to: What do we do when all the people, and systems that are supposed to help you, won’t?
Pollyparsnips

Shocking Stuff

This is a most compelling and polished production! It addresses a profoundly significant issue: mental illness. And more than that, as it draws one in from the get-go it becomes increasingly shocking as the unethical insensitivity of the people associated with The Goodspeed Opera House slowly reveals itself. The writing, editing, rich audio effects, and impeccable reliability of the facts made listening to this for me a first-rate, worthwhile experience. And it is giving me faith that truth finds its way out.
Jeena917

This is a riveting podcast!

Sean is amazing that he has the guts to reveal this in the podcast and the production is phenomenal, I can’t wait for the next drop.
hphilly582

Tragically Familiar and Empowering

I started listening to this as a theatre professional and it is so haunting and true of so many people in the performing arts. Excited to journey with Sean to learn more about his experience

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