John Cameron Mitchell to Launch Musical Podcast Anthem

First Look Media's Topic Studios has announced a partnership with writer and performer John Cameron Mitchell (Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Shortbus, How to Talk to Girls at Parties) to develop a new musical podcast entitled Anthem. The anthology series will tell a unique American story though a distinct musical voice, with each season pairing an iconic songwriter with an experienced storyteller to bring audiences a fascinating tale from a neglected corner of the country. Anthem is currently in production and will be available to audiences later this year.

The premiere season, Anthem: Homunculus, written and directed by John Cameron Mitchell and Bryan Weller, will tell one story in 10 30-minute episodes, with more than 30 original songs written by Mitchell and Weller. The podcasts will feature performances by Mitchell and Tony Award winner Cynthia Erivo (The Color Purple), along with Patti LuPone, Glenn Close, South African singer-songwriter Nakhane, Denis O'Hare, Laurie Anderson, Simone, Christopher Hanke, Ben Foster, Madeline Brewer, James Monroe Iglehart, Justin Vivian Bond, and Bridget Everett.

"John Cameron Mitchell is such a special talent," said Adam Pincus, executive vice president of programming & content for First Look Media, in a statement. "Between John's vision, the extraordinary talent, and the incredible original music that's such a huge part of this story — everything from Broadway to punk rock — this musical will grab audiences by the ears and take podcasts as an art to new heights."

Anthem is executive-produced by Howard Gertler, Mitchell, Weller, and Topic Studios, and is edited by Emmy Award winner Brian Kates, A.C.E.