Dame Judi Dench, Dame Julie Andrews and Others Celebrate Sondheim in New Podcast

A new podcast celebrating the extraordinary legacy of Stephen Sondheim will launch this March, offering an intimate and authoritative tribute to one of musical theatre’s greatest innovators.

The series explores Sondheim’s unparalleled contribution to music, lyrics, and dramatic storytelling, examining how his work reshaped Broadway and continues to influence generations of artists.

The podcast brings together an exceptional line-up of contributors who worked with, were inspired by, or deeply admired Sondheim. Among those taking part are Dame Judi Dench and Dame Julie Andrews, whose reflections provide rare personal insight into Sondheim’s creative brilliance, discipline, and humanity. Their contributions are complemented by voices from across theatre, film, and music, creating a rich, multi-layered portrait of the composer-lyricist.

Loving You: The Untold Sondheim is hosted by Martin Milnes and Peter E Jones, with an impressive list of contributors as Julie Andrews, Jamie Bernstein, Judi Dench, Mia Farrow, Ronan Farrow, Maria Friedman, Adam Guettel, John Kander, James Lapine, Patti LuPone, Maltby and Shire, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Bernadette Peters, Jonathan Tunick, John Weidman and Maury Yeston and Sondheim’s half-brother, Walter E Sondheim.

Milnes said: “Our podcast is a valentine to Steve produced by – and made with – those good and crazy people, his friends. In his lifetime, it was often said that ‘Steve’s got his story and he’s sticking to it.’ But in this series, we lovingly portray surprisingly different sides to our friend – shared by those with whom Steve chose to spend time away from the spotlight. Their intimate memories humanise a giant of theatre, highlighting his great sense of fun. Simultaneously, they express how deeply and profoundly Steve’s love transformed so many lives. I am extremely proud to collaborate with my faithful friend Peter E Jones, whom Steve himself brought into my life. We invite our listeners to discover the untold Sondheim through romantic love, platonic love, his love of children, movies, puzzles, games, mentorship and other passions; and of course, love of his work and the legacy he has left us. We hope our intriguing little social item will entertain you. We’re sure it will make you smile.”

Across the episodes, listeners will hear in-depth discussions of landmark shows, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and thoughtful analysis of Sondheim’s distinctive approach to character, structure, and lyricism. The podcast balances critical appreciation with warmth and accessibility, making it equally compelling for lifelong devotees and those newly discovering his work.

Released in March, this podcast stands as both a celebration and a record: a timely, thoughtful homage to Stephen Sondheim’s enduring artistic legacy.