Feel Good Interview Series: Sharna Burgess of "Dancing with the Stars" and "Pen Pals" Off-Broadway - 10 Things to Know about this Australian Dancer/Actor

By Markos Papadatos

Sharna Burgess is an Australian ballroom dancer who is known for her dancing work as a professional dancer on "Dancing with the Stars." 

Most recently, she made her Off-Broadway debut, and she starred in the Off-Broadway show "Pen Pals" as a British character Mags opposite Paige Davis (TLC's "Trading Spaces") who played Bernie. Burgess shared 10 interesting, fun and exciting things about herself.

 

Sharna's Favorite Movies

The classics “Hello, Dolly!” and “Singin’ in the Rain” are two of her favorite movies. “The stories are magical, and the films are just beautiful,” she admitted.

Feel Good Interview Series — Get To Know Robbie Simpson of "Finding Mr. Christmas", TV and Broadway - 9 Things to Know

By: Markos Papadatos

Robbie Simpson competed in Season 2 of "Finding Mr. Christmas." Simpson is an actor and producer, who hails from New York. The show is hosted by Jonathan Bennett ("Mean Girls") with Melissa Peterson serving as a judge.

Simpson, who was the sole LGBTQ contestant this season, shared nine interesting and fun things about himself.

Robbie's Favorite Movies

His favorite movie of all time is “The Wizard of Oz.” “I used to watch it with my family, and to this day, it’s my favorite movie,” he admitted.

His Favorite Series to Binge-watch

His favorite series to binge is “Dawson’s Creek.” “It makes me feel all the warm, fuzzy feelings that a Hallmark movie makes me feel,” he admitted. “I really love it… and it’s good for people of all ages.”

Robbie's Favorite Motto to Live by

His favorite motto to live by is the following: “Shoot for the moon, and if you miss it, you will up on the stars.” “You have a goal or a moon that you are shooting for…  and go for that,” he exclaimed.

Favorite Sports to Watch and to Play

When asked about his favorite sports to watch, he responded, “I would much rather watch a Broadway musical over sports.”

“My favorite sport to play is actually skiing. I love it,” he added.

Robbie's Favorite Cheat Meal

On his favorite cheat meal, he said, “The last 15 years, I haven’t eaten red meat or pork. Now, I am eating cheeseburgers left and right. So, it would be a Smashburger or a Cheeseburger. I can’t stop eating burgers.”

The Best Thing About Being His Age is....

On the best thing about being his age, he said, “I used to be so worried about getting older, but now I love getting older. Just the experience, getting wiser, and learning more about yourself… I am having more fun the older I get.”

Favorite Hobbies to Unwind and Relax

“I love to cook and I love to go running. I’ve run four marathons, which I didn’t tell the other guys. I am pretty athletic.”

On This Stage of His Life

On the title of the current chapter of his life, Simpson revealed, “The Sky is the Limit.”

“This show has given me such a huge platform, and so many wonderful and awesome things are happening to me,” he said.

If Robbie Simpson Could Have a Superpower It Would Be...

On his superpower of choice, he said, “I would love to fly.”

“I love traveling and going everywhere. By flying, I wouldn’t be stuck in a Delta Lounge all the time for delayed flights,” he said.

 To learn more about  actor and producer Robbie Simpson, follow him on Instagram.

Photo Credit: Kim Nunneley, Hallmark Media

Feel Good Interview Series: 10 Things to Know about Davey Fisher of Hallmark's "Finding Mr. Christmas'" - Including what World Record He Broke

By Markos Papadatos

Davey Fisher was one of the 10 contestants in Season 2 of the hit Hallmark reality series "Finding Mr. Christmas," which is hosted by Jonathan Bennett.

Most recently, on December 30th, Fisher shattered the world record for most walking lunges at Aviation Park in Redondo Beach, California.

Fisher shared 10 interesting and exciting things about himself.

Davey's Favorite Movies

On his favorite movies, he said, “I have to lean towards comedies because that is where my heart lies. Probably ‘Step Brothers’ for a comedy, and ‘Terminator 2’ was super nostalgic in my childhood. There are so many. I’ve always thought ‘The Departed’ is really pretty.”

SuzeeBehindtheScenes Holds Holiday Mingle and Jingle Party in Midtown Manhattan - Photos

SuzeeBehindtheScenes held a "Holiday Mingle and Jingle" at Route 66 Cafe in the heart of midtown Manhattan. Guests from all aspects of the entertainment industry and influencers mixed and mingled and enjoyed an array of delicious foods prepared by the cafe's chefs. 

This year, SuzeeBehindtheScenes will close the year reaching nearly 1.6 million views, with 5-6000 readers visiting the site per day. With over 1500 articles, the site is known for its celebrity interviews and its support of new filmmakers and creatives as well as non-profits. Next year, the focus will be showing the work of more females, as well as highlighting the productions going on in NJ - what is now becoming known as "Hollywood East". In the coming years, NJ has at minimum Netflix, Paramount and Lionsgate building huge production facilities in the state among other studios already here or with plans to build. 

PHOTOS

The 2025 Collaboration Awards Held in New York City: Honored Women Helping Women - in Partnership with the Women in the Arts and Media Coalition- See Honorees

The 2025 Collaboration Awards: Women Working with Women  honored outstanding artists creating new interdisciplinary work in theater, film and dance on December 8, 2025 in New York City. The gala, produced by the Women in the Arts & Media Coalition (WAM Coalition), honored outstanding partnerships between professional women from different specializations across the arts and media industries. The event, held in the Fred and Adele Astaire Ballroom at the Houghton Hall Arts Community in Manhattan, was presented at a time when opportunities for both women and the arts are under threat.

 

(Above Photo: Sibyl Reymundo-Santiago is presented the Community Collaboration Award by Terry Lawler credit Ken Howard Photography)

Feel Good Interview Series: Orion Smith of 'The Conjuring: The Last Rites' - 10 Things to Know About Him

By Markos Papadatos

Orion Smith is one of the stars in "The Conjuring: The Last Rites," who plays Young Ed (the younger version of Patrick Wilson's character) opposite Madison Lawlor (who plays a Young Lorraine). This rising star shared 10 interesting and fun things about himself.

Orion Smith's Favorite Movies

On his favorite movies, Orion shared, “I really like ‘Interstellar.’ I love ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’ and ‘Dr. Strangelove’.”

Feel Good Interview Series: Caitlin Houlahan of 'Only Murders in the Building' and 'Mare of Easttown' (10 Things to Know About Her)

By: Markos Papadatos

Caitlin Houlahan is known for her acting work in “Only Murders in the Building,” “American Rust” and “Mare of Easttown.”

Presently, she is starring in the Off-Broadway show “Not Ready for Prime Time,” where she is playing Jane Curtin.

Houlanhan shared 10 interesting and exciting things about herself.

The Surflight Theater in Long Beach Island NJ Serves Up a Stupendous, Magical Production of Elf - Fun for the Whole Family

By Suzanne Ordas Curry (Suzee)

Elf is one of my favorite movies, one of my go-to classics for putting me in a good mood and in the holiday spirit. I've watched it so many times my kids like to tease me about it. However, we all have fun piping in each others conversations with some of the best lines from this movie. I can't even begin to list them all but any Elf maniac knows what they are. But..here are some of my favorites:

SANTA ! I know him.

You're not Santa - you smell like beef and cheese

Christmas Gram. What's That? I want one!

I am also an Elf purist. I can tell when certain parts are edited out of the TV versions. However, even being a purist, I enjoyed seeing the musical/play version of it. I saw it Off-broadway many years ago and most recently I saw it at the Surflight Theater in beautiful and cozy Long Beach Island NJ.

Feel Good Interview Series: Logan Shephard of Hallmark's "Finding Mr. Christmas" - 11 Things to Know About Him

By: Markos Papadatos

Logan Shephard was a contestant on "Finding Mr. Christmas" Season 2 on Hallmark, which is hosted by Jonathan Bennett. Shephard is an actor and photographer, who hails from Cincinnati, Ohio.

He shared 11 interesting and fun things about himself.

Logan Shephard's Favorite Movies

He listed “Twister,” the “Terminator” films and “The Fast and The Furious” as his favorite movies.

Fabulous Females Interview: Meet Alixx Schottland, Who Created the Short "Love, Music, Shelter" After Seeing the Experience of Homeless Women - How She Hopes the Film Will Raise Awareness and What She Wants to Do Next

By Suzee

I had the pleasure of meeting Alixx Schottland at the annual NY Women in Film and Television Muse Awards, as she was seated with a renowned casting director, Adrienne Stern, that I know. Her name came up again a few months later as her short, Love, Music, Shelter, was playing the the Lighthouse International Film Festival on Long Beach Island, NJ. We had also both worked with the same producer, Scott Rosenfelt (Home Alone, Mystic Pizza). I was immediately impressed with the film as I attended that festival. Not only did it have a strong feminist angle, but it tackled the subject of homelessness and poverty in an interesting, engaging, realistic and above all musical way.  Read on to find out what inspired her to do a film about single motherhood and what's next on the horizon for this multi-talented woman. Plus, she gives some spot-on advice on how to motivate oneself to get one's dream project on track!

Tell me about what you are most excited about right now.

Alixx Schottland: I’m most excited about my two social-impact scripted films: Harmony & Hope — the feature version of our award-winning short Love Music Shelter — and The Housewife, a female-empowerment thriller by Kelly Turner. We’re hoping to go into production in January and March!

New Anthology Project Debut - The Public Figure Songbook Features America's Fabled Houseguest Kato Kealin - Hear Interview about This Unique Compilation of Original Songs by Brad Forenza and Shane Bordeau That Capture Moments in Recent American History

The Public Figure Songbook, an original Americana concept album, is now available across all major streaming platforms. The anthology project features songs (and some multimedia content) ripped from the headlines and sung from the imagined perspective of accidental public figures (e.g., Christa McAuliffe, Tammy Faye Bakker), as conceived by Shane Bordeau (music) and Brad Forenza (lyrics). 

Among the participants lending their perspective to the reissued project is an actual public figure (Kato Kaelin), best known for his testimony in a mid-1990s “trial of the century.” Kaelin offered praise for the project—and further contextualized himself—in a new interview conducted by album lyricist, Brad Forenza.

Watch Kaelin’s video interview about the project here:

https://youtu.be/r8T3e4qeR1E

Feel Good Interview Series: Get to Know Gabriel Thaxton of "Finding Mr. Christmas'"— 10 Things to Know About Him

By: Markos Papadatos

Gabriel Thaxton is an actor, model, and he was a contestant on Season 2 of "Finding Mr. Christmas" on Hallmark. He is a father of a daughter, and one is on the way. He shared 10 interesting and exciting things about himself.

Gabriel's Favorite Movies

His favorite movies are the new “Frankenstein,” “Forrest Gump,” “The Shawshank Redemption,” “Klaus,” and “F1.”

Favorite Series to Binge

His favorite series to binge-watch are “The Office” and “Friends.”

Prestigious Organization New York Women In Film and Television Announces New and Returning Board Members, Women's Preservation Fund Holds Screening at MoMA and More News

New York Women in Film & Television (NYWIFT) is pleased to announce the results of its 2025 Board of Directors elections. As a non-profit 501 (c) (3) public charity, NYWIFT is governed by a board of directors elected by the membership. Board members serve on committees in the areas of Development, Special Events, and Advocacy and Education. Two spots on the board have been filled, with one new and one returning member. 

Jake Shore's "The Slide is the Negative" To Run at the Chain Theater Through December - Stars Cady McClain, Ryan Tramon, Sophie Moshofsky and Brad Fryman

Axial Theatre and JCS Theater Company in association with the Oberon Theatre Ensemble, Fortify.Space, Michael Howard Studios and Good Juju Industries present the world premiere of Jake Shore's THE SLIDE IS THE NEGATIVE at The Chain Theatre as part of the Factory Series. THE SLIDE IS THE NEGATIVE runs November 29 – December 21 with performances Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 PM and Sunday at 2:00 PM with additional performances Wed 12/17 at 7:30pm & Fri 12/19 at 2pm. The Chain Theatre is located at 312 West 36th Street 4th floor NY, NY 10018 Tickets are $38.50 general admission, $25.00 senior and $20 students, available at www.jcstheater.com

NY/NJ Area Event - See Dawn Derow Perform in SING HAPPY - A Celebration of Broadway's Unforgettable Women - at the TRIAD in NYC, November 18th and December 1, 2025

Feel Good Interview Series: Marcia Cross of "Desperate Housewives", Daytime Dramas and More - 10 Things to Know About Her

By: Markos Papadatos

Marcia Cross is an American actress who is best known for her portrayal of Bree van de Kamp in the hit TV series "Desperate Housewives." This role earned her three Golden Globe nominations, a Primetime Emmy nomination for "Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series." She also played President Claire Haas in the ABC show "Quantico."

She got her start in the soap opera world playing characters in "The Edge of Night," "Another World" and "One Life to Live" prior to moving into primetime TV with a recurring role on "Knots Landing." She also played Kimberly Shaw on "Melrose Place."

Most recently, Cross starred in the Off-Broadway show "Pen Pals" as Mags opposite Catherine Curtin as Bernie. She shared 10 interesting and exciting things about herself. 

YOU GOTTA HEAR HIS LAUGH - Richard Kind Gets Roasted and Toasted at Richard Kind: Everywhere All At Once - A Benefit for The Creative Coalition in New York City as Part of NYC Comedy Festival - PHOTOS Included

By Suzanne "Suzee" Ordas Curry

I heard Richard Kind laugh in person - and I'll never forget it.

You might think his laugh is infectious and unique when you hear him on screen, but when it's in person it's just hard to describe. His laughter makes you laugh involuntarily, and it puts you in a good mood. He's got different kinds (pun intended) of laughs - it's just not one standard laugh. And some are knee-slapping- literally. Here's one of them:

Feel - Good Interview: Meet Courtney Reed of "Aladdin" and "Moulin Rouge! The Musical" — 10 Things To Know About Her

 By: Markos Papadatos

Courtney Reed is a Broadway actress who originated the role of Princess Jasmine in "Aladdin" on Broadway, and she recently starred as Satine in "Moulin Rouge! The Musical."

Reed will be starring in the Off-Broadway production of "Reunions," which will be performed at New York City Center. She shared 10 interesting and fun things about herself.

Marilu Henner, Gianmarco Soresi, Laura Benanti, A Night of Soul, Broadway Sessions and So Much More Happening at The GreenRoom42 This Holiday Season at Beyond in NYC

The GreenRoom 42 presents a fine line up of stars and acts for the holiday season and beyond. Marilu Henner comes to the stage on November 15th and 26th with special guests Bonnie Milligan and Michael Orland. Following that in November and December comes Gianmarco Soresi with Laura Benanti, Kyle Selig and Erika Henningsen.

You may like: Get to know Marilu Henner HERE. 

Many of the shows are livestreamed. Read below for all the superb and fun performances coming to this iconic venue or visit their website at https://thegreenroom42.venuetix.com/

Teaneck International Film Festival Runs November 6-13th - Opening Film "The Disappearance of Miss Scott" and Closing Film, "Lilly" Sandwiches a Festival Packed with Doc, Shorts, Student Films and More for All In-Person and Streaming

The Teaneck International Film Festival unveils its 20th anniversary roster!  A project of The Puffin Foundation Ltd., the 20th anniversary festival will be held November 6-13, 2025, featuring over 25 films, panel discussions, awards, and parties with filmmakers, actors, elected officials and industry guests attending.     The film festival with a social conscience is committed to telling stories that need to be heard, and inspiring thoughtful discussion, involvement, and activism. The narrative features, documentaries, and shorts cover a broad range of subjects that are of concern to all: civil rights, women’s rights, immigration, threats to free speech, the unhoused and food insecurity, LGBTQ+ concerns, the environment, and more.

NY/NJ Area Event: Experience a Magical Holiday Season at New Jersey Performing Arts Center: Shows Include Chevy Chase, Trisha Yearwood, A John Denver Christmas, Cece Winans and More, Many Family-Friendly

 

Looking for something fun to do with the family for the holidays? NJ Performing Arts Center, located in Newark, NJ, conveniently located less than an hour from New York City and available by many forms of transit, has a host of events sure to get you in the holiday spirit.  Experience the magic of celebration through spectacular concert performances and beloved holiday classics. This season promises to be filled with laughter, cheer, and the spirit of togetherness as NJPAC transforms into a holiday haven for everyone. Be captivated by the enchanting melodies of Trisha Yearwood (12/5) as she brings heartfelt warmth to the season, or enjoy the nostalgic charm of "John Denver Christmas" a heartfelt tribute led by renowned performer Rick Schuler on (11/30) Don’t miss the soul-stirring holiday gospel sensation of CeCe Winans as she will perform for two nights (12/19 and 12/20) to what will be a sold out audience.

Coverage and Photos of Healing TREE's 10 Annual Star-Studded Gala at the Players Club in Manhattan - with Marissa Ghavami, Kevin Kilner, John Magaro, N'Kenge, Christina Bianco, Pooya Mohseni, Mia Pinero and More

by Suzanne Ordas Curry

I recently went to the Healing TREE's 10th Annual Gala at the beautiful Players Club in New York City. Though it was an event to raise money for a mental health - specifically healing trauma - I found it did my mental health a world of good.

It was one of the most beautiful and interesting fundraising galas I have attended in quite some time. First, the location was superb. The Players Club is a unique 1847 Guilded Age mansion at 16 Gramercy Park South in New York City. The period architecture is complemented by halls decked with framed photos of their members going back over 100 years. Most people will be able to recognize some of their favorite actors from past and present on the walls. The building was the home of renowned actor Edwin Booth. 

Bookends in NJ Hosts Author Book Signings by Candance Cameron Bure, Kenny Chesney, Rainn Wilson, Katherine Schwarzenegger, Nia Sioux, Michelle Maros, Andrew Simern and Barton Seaver and Darryl DMC McDaniels

Fall is always the time for major book launches, and Bookends, a quick ride from New York City is a favorite stop of many an author. With ample parking, and a set-up that allows for access to the author - usually with a picture of the purchaser - it's a great way to meet your favorite author or celebrity. Bookends also coordinates with larger venues for some of the most most popular authors. The fall lineup continues with Candance Cameron Bure, Kenny Chesney, Rainn Wilson, Katherine Schwarzenegger, Nia Sioux, Michelle Maros, Andrew Simern and Barton Seaver and Darryl DMC McDaniels. More authors are always added. Visit https://www.book-ends.org/ for more info and updates.

Note: See our interview with Candance Cameron Bure: https://www.suzeebehindthescenes.com/2024/06/feel-good-interview-series-candace.html

Feel - Good Interview: Get to Know Actor Bill Alverson of Lifetime's "A Sorority Mom's Guide To Rush", Netflix's "Insatiable" And More

By Suzanne Ordas Curry

Actor Bill Alverson has been seen recently on Lifetime's new series A Sorority Mom's Guide to Rush! In addition he's known for titles Coach Charming TLC and Netflix's Insatiable. We got to learn a little more about him.

SBTS: Tell me about your most recent project on Lifetime.

Bill Alverson: A Sorority Mom's Guide to Rush, on Lifetime TV (streaming on mylifetime.com and Apple TV and Amazon) is a show centered on the relationship between mothers and daughters as they prepare and navigate sorority rush. My role is one of a Rush Coach that takes a form of life coaching and being self aware of your own identity and what you goals and priorities are which lead to a discovery of your purpose. A side emphasis is the aspect of a mother and encouraging their daughters to make independent choices.