Series Summary
Backstage Pass is a new mini-series from Broadway Breakdown that pulls back the curtain on the making of a show in real time. In this episode, Matt sits down with the creators of Marcel on the Train—writer/star Ethan Slater and writer/director Marshall Pailet—to explore how the project came together and how they transformed the remarkable true story of Marcel Marceau into a theatrical event.
The Guests
Tony nominee Ethan Slater co-wrote the piece and stars as Marcel Marceau, bringing the legendary mime’s early life to the stage. Audiences may know him from his Broadway breakout in SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical and recent film work in Wicked.
Writer and director Marshall Pailet is an award-winning theatermaker whose work includes the musical Private Jones. In this conversation, Pailet discusses shaping the show’s storytelling and directing Slater in a role that blends biography, theatrical invention, and physical performance.
Important Link
Marshall Pailet: Site
Ethan Slater: Site
Time Stamps
02:20 – How Ethan Slater and Marshall Pailet first began developing the project
07:15 – The early writing process and shaping the narrative structure
15:10 – Marshall’s directing approach and building the visual vocabulary of the show
20:45 – Ethan on performing Marcel: balancing acting, movement, and biography
25:30 – Collaborating with Classic Stage Company to bring the production Off-Broadway
30:40 – Workshop development, revisions, and finding the show’s tone
35:20 – Audience reactions and what resonates most about Marcel’s story
45:10 – Looking ahead: the future life of the piece and final reflections
Listener Questions
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