This podcast episode explores the fascinating and contentious life story of Mama Rose and her daughter Gypsy Rose Lee amidst the vaudeville and burlesque scenes. It dives into Mama Rose's relentless ambition for her daughters' stardom, set against changing entertainment landscapes and economic challenges. The narrative captures Rose's schemes, rumored relationships, and the complex family dynamics involving her daughters, leading to Gypsy's rise in the burlesque world. Noteworthy are the scandals, lawsuits, and the mysterious family events, including a significant death that cast a shadow over Rose's legacy. The episode reflects on these tumultuous stories, which inspired the musical 'Gypsy', and provides critical insights into familial bonds and individual dreams.

00:00 Introduction and Hosts

00:34 Recap of Mama Rose's Story

00:59 Beverage Banter and Theater Talk

02:19 Community Theater Anecdotes

06:30 Mama Rose's New Show

10:21 The Rise of Gypsy Rose Lee

14:07 Mama Rose's Burlesque Adventures

29:34 Bathtub Gin and Family Drama

41:23 Mysterious Death at Witchwood Manor

55:27 Gypsy's Marriage and Family Feud

56:22 Rose's Theatrical Antics

57:25 Gypsy's Hollywood Life and Rose's Schemes

58:40 Rose's Erratic Behavior and Feuds

01:00:08 Gypsy's Writing and Rose's Lawsuits

01:03:38 Rose's Decline and Final Years

01:07:06 The Legacy of Mama Rose

In this engaging podcast episode, hosts Jen, Ashley, and Olivia explore the fascinating and tumultuous life of Mama Rose, the infamous stage mother of Gypsy Rose Lee and June Havoc. The discussion draws from Carolyn Quinn's book, 'Mama Rose's Turn,' revealing the complex interplay of arts and crime in Mama Rose's life. The hosts investigate Mama Rose's rumored criminal activities, her strategic navigation of the vaudeville scene, and the dramatic impact of her actions on her daughters' lives. From forged birth certificates and secret marriages to family disputes and professional pressures, the episode intertwines true crime with theatrical history, offering an insight into the real-life inspiration behind the musical 'Gypsy.' This captivating narrative promises more thrilling revelations in future episodes.

00:00 Listener Discretion Advised

00:27 Meet the Hosts

00:51 Introducing Mama Rose

02:01 Mama Rose's Dark Secrets

03:10 The Real Story Behind Gypsy

08:44 Rose's Early Life and Family

25:19 Rose's Marriage and Motherhood

32:58 The Birth of Baby June

47:29 The Divorce and Mama Rose's Cruelty

48:15 Baby June's Early Stardom

49:28 Transition to Hollywood

51:03 Life in Hollywood and Financial Struggles

54:29 Vaudeville Circuit and Forged Birth Certificates

56:50 Rise to Fame and the Orpheum Circuit

59:21 The Decline of Vaudeville and Family Tensions

01:22:33 June's Rebellion and Secret Marriage

01:30:06 Mama Rose's Breakdown and Attempted Murder

01:31:34 Intermission and Upcoming Drama

The Astonishing Life and Legacy of Harry Houdini: Magic, Mysticism, and Mastery

In this captivating episode, the hosts embark on a fascinating journey through the life and legacy of Harry Houdini, interspersed with discussions on their favorite wines and Florida's autumn festivities. Listeners will explore Houdini's dramatic life, from his humble beginnings and marriage to Bess, to his rise as the 'Handcuff King.' The episode highlights his most famous escape acts, including the Chinese Water Torture and the Vanishing Elephant, as well as his innovative publicity stunts and efforts to expose fraudulent mediums. The hosts also touch on the cultural forces that shaped his career during the Industrial Revolution. The episode concludes with a discussion on Houdini's deteriorating health, mysterious death, and the various conspiracy theories surrounding it, solidifying his lasting legacy in the realms of magic and escape artistry.

00:00 Welcome and Wine Talk

01:02 Halloween Vibes and Manifesting

01:57 Introduction to Harry Houdini

02:52 Houdini's Early Life and Inspirations

04:59 Celebrity Encounters and Sidebars

20:52 Magic and the Industrial Revolution

41:55 The Struggle of Houdini's Family

46:06 Houdini's Early Performances

47:57 Houdini's Marriage and Personal Life

01:00:04 Houdini's Rise to Fame

01:00:58 Houdini's Famous Escapes

01:13:51 Houdini's Relationship with Spiritualism

01:19:52 The Granite Tomb and Spiritualism

01:21:50 Houdini's Disguise and Debunking Seances

01:23:20 Friendship with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

01:27:50 Houdini's Declining Health

01:31:35 The Fatal Punch and Appendicitis

01:40:05 Conspiracy Theories and Legacy

01:47:25 Bess Houdini's Annual Seances

01:53:48 Houdini's Enduring Legacy

Nell Gwynn: From Actrss to King's Confidante - The Enchanting Journey of a Restoration Actress

In this episode of 'Murder Mayhem and Mame,' the hosts delve into the enchanting life of Nell Gwynn, one of England's most iconic actresses and the cherished mistress of King Charles II. They explore her rise from working in her mother's bawdy house to becoming a celebrated actress and the King's favorite. The discussion covers Nell's captivating wit, charm, and strategic intelligence that endeared her to the King. The narrative also addresses her experiences as an orange girl, her influence on the monarch, and the political intrigue surrounding her. Following the King's death and Nell's subsequent struggles, her charitable works and lasting impact on theater and society are recounted, painting a vivid picture of a Restoration-era folk hero who remained true to her roots.

00:00 Introduction

00:19 Social Media and Hairstyles

00:44 Dessert and Drinks

02:37 Beverages and Podcast Recording

03:44 Introduction to Nell Gwynn

06:40 Nell Gwynn's Early Life

10:11 Restoration Theatre and Women's Roles

14:26 Nell Gwynn's Rise to Fame

36:30 Nell Gwynn and King Charles II

47:56 Restoration Theater Epilogues

48:27 Nell Gwynn: The First Superstar

48:52 Country Escapes and Windsor Summers

50:09 Nell's Unique Position at Court

0:47 The Birth of Charles and Relationship Dynamics

53:06 Rivalries and Court Intrigues

55:11 Nell's Return to the Stage and Final Performance

56:06 Nell's Devotion and Life as a Lady

01:04:40 Political Intrigues and the Popish Plot

01:05:28 Tragic Losses and Final Years

01:22:38 Nell's Legacy and Final Reflections

Hurricane Party with the Floozies! Join Jen, Olivia, and Ashley as they reminisce on hurricanes past, how the show must go on, and more unhinged fun. This is what Floridians do during hurricanes! The worrying will drive you crazy, so join the floozies as they unwind and laugh a little as "Uncle Milton" gets ready to roll on through. We just want to keep your spirits up. We hope this helps.

In this episode, actors Olivia, Jen, and Ashley begin with light-hearted introductions, discussing their star signs, hairstyles, the weather, quirky personal details, and favorite desserts. The conversation transitions into a mesmerizing narrative about the haunted Annie Russell Theatre in Winter Park, Florida, offering historical insights about the actress Annie Russell, her career, health, and personal life. The hosts share chilling stories of ghosts and paranormal events within the theatre. The episode briefly teases next week's discussion on actress Nell Gwynn and her royal affair. Additionally, the hosts reveal an upcoming deep dive into the fascinating 'language of the fan,' stirring excitement for future episodes.

00:00 Introduction and Weather Talk

00:25 Meet the Hosts

00:53 Bang Styles and Merch Ideas

01:29 Better Than Sex Restaurant

02:49 The Fan and Menopause

03:50 Spooky Season and Halloween

07:10 Annie Russell Theater History

09:22 Annie Russell's Early Life

12:14 Annie Russell's Acting Career

23:41 Annie Russell's Later Years

37:48 The Haunted Annie Russell Theater

38:37 Theater Ghost Stories

39:25 Annie's Seat and the Golden Retriever

41:43 Disembodied Applause and Other Hauntings

42:58 Annie's Dressing Room and the Open Door

45:13 Apparitions and the Painted Message

48:05 The Electrocution Incident of 1962

52:27 Personal Ghost Encounters

56:41 Dark Spirits and the Hanging Incident

01:01:16 Final Thoughts and Future Topics

In this inaugural episode of the ‘The Wicked Stage' podcast, hosts Olivia, Jen, and Ashley introduce their true crime series focused on the world of arts and entertainment. With backgrounds in theater and a fascination for true crime, they delve into the life of early 1900s beauty Evelyn Nesbitt, her relationships with architect Stanford White and millionaire Harry Thaw, and the ensuing drama of Stanford White's murder by Thaw. The episode covers the sensational trials of Harry Thaw, the intense public and media scrutiny, and the impact on Nesbitt's life and career, leading to her eventual retreat from the public eye. The story is set against the vibrant backdrop of New York's theater scene and includes reflections on its broader cultural and historical significance.

00:00 Welcome to the Wicked Stage Pod

00:32 Meet the Hosts: Olivia, Ashley, and Jen

02:24 The Confusion of Identity

06:34 The Origin of 'Life Upon the Wicked Stage'

10:54 Introducing Evelyn Nesbitt

16:47 Evelyn's Early Life and Rise to Fame

20:04 The Dark Side of Fame: Stanford White

35:25 The Assault and Its Aftermath

41:51 Ignoring Unwanted Advances

42:13 Jack the Feminist Chihuahua

42:34 The Fear of Women's Safety

43:29 True Crime and Education

44:24 Evelyn Nesbitt's Complicated Relationships

50:01 Harry Thaw's Troubled Past

01:05:22 The Murder of Stanford White

01:08:52 The Aftermath and Trials

01:15:41 Evelyn Nesbitt's Later Life

01:22:23 Conclusion and Reflections