BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary: "Stagecraft: Cary Gitter on 'Gene & Gilda'"
Release Date: August 8, 2025
In this engaging episode of BroadwayRadio, host Jan Simpson delves deep into the creative process behind Carrie Gitter's compelling two-hander play, "Gene & Gilda." The conversation offers listeners an insider’s view of the play's development, thematic nuances, and the challenges of portraying iconic figures like Gene Wilder and Gilda Radner on stage.
1. Introduction to Carrie Gitter and "Gene & Gilda" [00:00 – 02:11]
Jan Simpson opens the episode by introducing Carrie Gitter, the playwright behind "Gene & Gilda," a biographical drama that humorously and poignantly explores the relationship between the beloved comic duo, Gene Wilder and Gilda Radner. The play is currently showcased at the Penguin Rep Theater and running until September 7th at the 59 East 59th Street Theatre.
2. Synopsis of "Gene & Gilda" [02:11 – 02:45]
Carrie Gitter describes the play as a "two-hander bio drama" that captures the romance and eventual tragedy of Gene and Gilda's relationship in the 1980s. She explains:
"The play essentially is framed as an interview with Gene after Gilda's passing and then it flashes back to scenes from their life together, from the time they met through Gilda's tragic death."
[02:11]
This structure allows audiences to witness their intimate moments juxtaposed with the public personas they were known for.
3. Inspiration and Origins [02:47 – 04:22]
Carrie shares her personal connection to both legends:
"I grew up exposed to both of their work and was always a huge admirer of Gene and Gilda both."
[02:47]
The catalyst for writing the play stemmed from a conversation with her actor friend, Jonathan Randall Silver, who bears a striking resemblance to Gene Wilder. This resemblance and Jonathan’s comedic talent inspired Gitter to explore the untold facets of Gene and Gilda's relationship.
4. Research Methodology [04:22 – 05:18]
Gitter emphasizes the importance of comprehensive research in authentic storytelling:
"Both of them have written wonderful memoirs... I started with those and then just went from there to the documentary, 'Love Gilda,' and a plethora of interviews, YouTube footage."
[04:24]
She utilized a variety of sources, including memoirs, documentaries, and archival interviews, to piece together the narrative of their lives and relationship.
5. Production Journey and Evolution [05:18 – 07:22]
"Gene & Gilda" has undergone significant evolution since its premiere:
- Summer 2023: Debuted at Penguin Rep in Stony Point, New York.
- February 2024: Participated in a workshop in New York City to refine the play.
- December 2024: Performed at George Street Playhouse in New Brunswick, New Jersey.
- Current Run: Presented at 59 East 59th Street Theatre with updated staging.
Gitter notes the extensive development and multiple rewrites that have shaped the play into its current form.
6. Script Development and Challenges [07:22 – 09:27]
One of the primary challenges Gitter faced was balancing the iconic public personas of Gene and Gilda with their private selves:
"Depicting two iconic figures like this puts a lot of pressure on you to do them justice... to honor their public personas while also trying to get to the more intimate stuff."
[07:24]
She grappled with portraying Gene Wilder as both the exuberant screen presence and the thoughtful, reserved individual, ultimately deciding to blend these facets to create a nuanced character.
7. Character Portrayal and Nuances [09:27 – 11:34]
Gitter discusses her approach to portraying Gilda Radner:
"I tried to approach those character quirks... with love and understanding. I think the portrait is a loving one and an homage."
[09:52]
She aimed to humanize Gilda, highlighting her endearing idiosyncrasies without portraying her as solely needy or overwhelming, as some memoirs suggest.
8. Casting and Performances [13:07 – 14:52]
The casting of Gilda Radner was pivotal. Gitter praises Jordan Kai Burnett, who not only captivated the audition panel but also embodies Gilda's vibrant spirit:
"She actually has also played Gilda in the development of a different play... she's funny, she's wacky, she's dynamic."
[13:15]
Gitter expresses gratitude for having a cast that brings authenticity and chemistry to the roles of Gene and Gilda.
9. Love for the Romance Genre [14:52 – 16:40]
Carrie attributes her affinity for romance-driven narratives to her upbringing, steeped in classic romantic comedies and screwball comedies:
"Love stories are what we lean into the most. And you can mine those for so much conflict and humor and sadness and joy."
[15:20]
This passion is evident in how she crafts the intricate relationship between Gene and Gilda on stage.
10. Structural Elements and Dick Cavett’s Involvement [16:56 – 19:50]
A significant addition to the current production is the inclusion of legendary talk show host Dick Cavett as the interviewer:
"Having him be part of it... lends such gravitas and authority and history and legacy."
[18:00]
Gitter explains that Cavett’s involvement adds a meta layer, enhancing the play's authenticity. While this element is currently exclusive to the Penguin Rep's production, she remains hopeful about its inclusion in future performances.
11. Future Adaptations and Musicalization [19:50 – 21:05]
When asked about turning "Gene & Gilda" into a musical, Gitter expresses reservations:
"Because they were real figures who weren't really musical artists, somehow that would seem... inorganic or jarring."
[20:06]
Instead, she chose to honor their love for music and dance through fantasy sequences choreographed by Ryan Casper Zak, maintaining the play’s integrity without transforming it into a musical.
12. Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations [21:05 – 21:49]
In her closing remarks, Gitter conveys her heartfelt hope that the play resonates with audiences, paying tribute to the enduring legacy of Gene Wilder and Gilda Radner:
"We're all hoping that the play does them justice and celebrates them."
[21:25]
She expresses gratitude for the opportunity to share their story and invites more people to experience the heartfelt narrative crafted in "Gene & Gilda."
Conclusion
This episode of BroadwayRadio offers a rich exploration of Carrie Gitter's "Gene & Gilda," shedding light on the meticulous research, creative challenges, and emotional depth involved in bringing the story of two beloved comedians to the stage. Through insightful dialogue and candid reflections, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the art of playwriting and the delicate balance of honoring real-life personalities while crafting an engaging theatrical experience.