Ryan Donovan

Ryan Donovan, Assistant Professor of Theater Studies and author of *Broadway Bodies*, dives into the complex world of Broadway casting. He discusses the narrow ideals of the 'Broadway Body' and how they shape societal norms in performance. Topics include the impact of fat suits in musicals and the casting of straight actors in gay roles, revealing the industry’s pervasive biases. Donovan critiques both the progress in inclusivity and the lingering structural barriers, highlighting key figures like Ali Stroker and recent shifts towards representation.