“Welcome to Enter Stage Left. I’m your host, Yvette Monique Clark. This is the spot where we kick it about all things theatre — with veterans and newbies alike. From onstage, to backstage, and even under the stage, we’re talking stories, craft, and the passion that keeps the theatre world alive. So whether you're a performer, a crew member, or just a lover of the stage, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into it.”

In this episode of Enter Stage Left, host Yvette Monique Clark sits down with Broadway performer, producer, director, and founder Anthony Wayne for an honest conversation about the journey behind the spotlight.

Anthony takes us back to Norfolk, Virginia, where his artistic path began through childhood theater and the mentors who saw something special in him before he saw it himself. He shares how years of training in music, dance, and theater slowly became the “gumbo” that shaped him into the multifaceted artist audiences know today.

The conversation dives into finding purpose in the industry, creating opportunities when doors aren’t open, and what it means to build something bigger than yourself. Anthony opens up about producing his own work, launching Black Broadway Men, mentoring the next generation, and protecting his emotional well-being in an industry that often demands everything from performers.

We also get stories from Broadway, lessons from legends like Ben Vereen, the surprising origin of his clogging skills, and a powerful discussion about community, self-care, and understanding who truly deserves access to your energy.

If you're an artist, creator, performer, or someone navigating purpose and passion, this conversation is packed with inspiration and real talk.

✨ In this episode:

• Growing up in Norfolk and discovering theater
• Training as a true triple-threat performer
• Finding inspiration through Fosse
• Broadway life and creating your own opportunities
• The creation of Black Broadway Men
• Advice from Ben Vereen: “Keep working”
• Mental health, boundaries, and protecting your peace
• Producing original work and building Mighty Real

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