All Of It Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Andrew Lloyd Webber On This New Phase of His Career
Host: Alison Stewart
Guest: Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber
Release Date: April 25, 2025
Duration: Approximately 27 minutes
Introduction
Alison Stewart opens the episode by celebrating the enduring legacy of Andrew Lloyd Webber, highlighting his most beloved musicals such as Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar, and The Phantom of the Opera. She introduces the current wave of successful revivals and upcoming projects that are rekindling interest in Webber's work among new generations. Notable upcoming productions include:
- Sunset Boulevard: A spare and intense revival featuring Nicole Scherzinger as Norma Desmond.
- Cats: The Jellicle Ball: A ballroom-inspired adaptation that became a hit off-Broadway in 2024.
- Evita Revival: Directed by Jamie Lloyd and starring Rachel Zegler as Eva Perrone.
- The Illusionist: A brand-new musical in collaboration with Jamie Lloyd.
“ALL OF IT is a show about culture and the culture.”
Embracing New Revivals
Timestamp: 02:14
Andrew Lloyd Webber expresses his enthusiasm for the new revivals of his musicals, emphasizing the importance of allowing fresh interpretations to breathe new life into his works. He collaborates with producer Michael Harrison, who is responsible for projects like Sunset Boulevard and the reopening of Starlight Express in London. Webber appreciates innovative takes, such as the Jellicle Ball’s unique perspective on Cats and the forthcoming London production directed by Drew McIntosh.
“I thought it was a really good idea to let the new works breathe, you know.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [02:14]
Collaboration with Jamie Lloyd on Sunset Boulevard
Timestamp: 05:05
Discussing the Sunset Boulevard revival, Webber commends director Jamie Lloyd for his minimalist approach, which removes traditional sets and period costumes to maintain a seamless narrative flow. He draws parallels between Lloyd and the legendary Harold Prince, highlighting their shared vision of ensuring that visual elements enhance rather than distract from the storytelling.
“Jamie makes the point we don't really need to see that. We don't. We just need to know that that's what's happened.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [05:05]
Audience Engagement and Evolution
Timestamp: 10:28
Webber shares his mixed feelings about The Phantom of the Opera closing in New York, recognizing its impact on new audiences during its final run. He anticipates the return of the iconic Prince production on tour in America and expresses excitement about new interpretations that continue to attract younger audiences. Additionally, he praises Jamie Lloyd’s reinterpretation of Shakespeare for modern audiences, reinforcing his belief in evolving classic works to remain relevant.
“Love Never Dies has actually been on a, on what it was a two-year tour around America.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [13:49]
Advice for Aspiring Musicians and Performers
Timestamp: 08:15
Webber offers heartfelt advice to young musicians and performers, stressing the importance of perseverance and the value of making their work heard. He underscores the transformative power of music education, sharing his own initiatives that provide instruments and lessons to underprivileged students in Britain. Webber recounts his early success with Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat as a testament to the impact of performing and sharing one’s work.
“If you are going to go into anything to do with performance or writing... the most important thing is to perform and get your work heard.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [08:15]
Future Projects: The Illusionist
Timestamp: 23:07
Webber provides a sneak peek into his upcoming musical, The Illusionist, set in Vienna around 1900. Collaborating once again with Jamie Lloyd, the project aims to deliver a highly theatrical experience based on a loose adaptation of a short story and a movie. Webber expresses confidence in the project’s development and anticipates its London premiere in the late summer or early autumn of the following year.
“It's set in Vienna in 1900. It's very, very vaguely based on the movie that came out that was based on a short story...” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [23:07]
Nicole Scherzinger’s Role in Sunset Boulevard
Timestamp: 16:34
Alison Stewart highlights Nicole Scherzinger’s acclaimed performance as Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard. Webber praises Scherzinger’s vocal prowess and her seamless transition from pop star to theater actress. He recounts his efforts to encourage her theatrical pursuits, culminating in her remarkable portrayal that has garnered widespread acclaim.
“She has one of the most, if not almost going to say the best voice I've worked with.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [16:34]
Fan Reactions and Adaptations
Timestamp: 19:42
Addressing fan concerns about new interpretations of his classic works, Webber acknowledges the deep attachment audiences have to original productions like Hal Prince’s Phantom of the Opera. However, he emphasizes the necessity of reimagining and restaging classic musicals to keep them alive and relevant. Webber cites examples of multiple new productions of classics like Guys and Dolls to illustrate the acceptance of evolving interpretations in theater.
“I think people do accept that works have to be restaged, rethought.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [19:42]
Musical Composition Insights
Timestamp: 21:02
When asked about the emotional impact of his music, Webber explains that his composition process is inherently story-driven. He focuses on creating music that serves the narrative rather than adhering to specific chord progressions or technical formulas. Webber mentions his affinity for unconventional time signatures, such as seven-eight time, which adds a unique rhythmic complexity to his compositions.
“I'm very story driven... I try and compose what's right for the actual story itself rather than having anything, any kind of prearranged thoughts.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [21:02]
Closing Remarks and Future Prospects
Timestamp: 26:45
In the final moments of the episode, Webber confirms that Cats: The Jellicle Ball will return to New York City, likely opening on Broadway early next year once a suitable theater becomes available. He humorously teases mysterious plans from the Phantom character, hinting at future productions and immersive experiences that remain under wraps.
“It'll open at the beginning of next year on Broadway.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [26:45]
Conclusion
Alison Stewart wraps up the conversation by expressing gratitude to Andrew Lloyd Webber for sharing insights into his creative process, upcoming projects, and perspectives on evolving his classic works. The episode offers a comprehensive look into Webber’s ongoing influence in the theater world and his commitment to fostering new talent and innovative productions.
“Andrew Lloyd Webber, thank you so much.” – Alison Stewart [27:35]
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- “I thought it was a really good idea to let the new works breathe, you know.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [02:14]
- “Jamie makes the point we don't really need to see that. We don't. We just need to know that that's what's happened.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [05:05]
- “If you are going to go into anything to do with performance or writing... the most important thing is to perform and get your work heard.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [08:15]
- “It's set in Vienna in 1900. It's very, very vaguely based on the movie that came out that was based on a short story...” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [23:07]
- “I think people do accept that works have to be restaged, rethought.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [19:42]
- “I'm very story driven... I try and compose what's right for the actual story itself rather than having anything, any kind of prearranged thoughts.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [21:02]
- “It'll open at the beginning of next year on Broadway.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber [26:45]
Key Takeaways
- Renewed Interest: Webber’s musicals are experiencing a resurgence through innovative revivals and new projects, attracting new audiences.
- Collaborations: Ongoing partnership with producer Michael Harrison and director Jamie Lloyd is pivotal in reimagining classic works.
- Creative Evolution: Webber supports fresh interpretations that stay true to the essence of his original compositions while allowing artistic freedom.
- Educational Commitment: Emphasis on music education and providing resources to underprivileged youth to foster future talent.
- Upcoming Projects: The Illusionist promises to be a theatrical spectacle set in early 20th-century Vienna, slated for a London premiere next year.
- Fan Engagement: While honoring original productions, Webber is open to evolving his works to maintain their relevance and appeal.
This summary encapsulates the comprehensive discussion between Alison Stewart and Andrew Lloyd Webber, highlighting his reflections on past successes, current projects, and future aspirations within the cultural landscape of theater.