Host Barry Joseph explores the profound connection between Stephen Sondheim and jigsaw puzzles. Joined by guests Michael Mitnick, an ardent collector of Sondheim memorabilia, and David Spira, co-creator of roomescapeartists.com, the trio delves into Sondheim's metaphorical view of puzzles in relation to art. The discussion spans from the unique jigsaw puzzles in Sondheim's collection, including promotional puzzles for his film 'The Last of Sheila,' to the custom-made puzzles he gave as opening night gifts for his Broadway shows. Through anecdotes and historical insights, this episode reveals how jigsaw puzzles reflect Sondheim's intricate mind and his attention to detail in both life and art.

This is the promised link to the photo discussed in this episode of Sondheim's wall of jigsaw puzzles in his Danbury CT home.

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00:00 Introduction to Matching Minds with Sondheim

00:57 Sondheim's Philosophy on Jigsaw Puzzles

01:30 Meet the Guests: Michael Mitnick and David Spira

02:04 Exploring Sondheim's Jigsaw Puzzle Collection

03:26 The Gold Boxes: The Last of Sheila

09:08 The Blue Boxes: Stave Puzzles

14:25 The White Boxes: Customized Stave Puzzles

17:38 Sondheim's Legacy and Personal Reflections

35:23 Conclusion and Credits

Thanks to everyone who contributed behind the scenes to this episode, specifically transcription and text editing by Jenny Westfall, the musical stingers composed by Mateo Chavez Lewis, and the theme song to our podcast with lyrics and music by Colm Molloy, and sung by the one and only Ann Morrison, who created the role of Mary in Merrily We Roll Along.

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#05 - Order Out of Chaos: Sondheim and Jigsaw Puzzles