BroadwayRadio Episode Summary: "This Week on Broadway for April 27, 2025: Stranger Things: The First Shadow"

Release Date: April 27, 2025

Hosts: James Marino, Peter (Playwright/Journalist/Historian), Michael Portantier (Theater Reviewer/Photographer)

Introduction

In this episode of BroadwayRadio, host James Marino welcomes listeners to a lively discussion with his co-hosts, Peter and Michael Portantier. The trio delves into recent Broadway productions, sharing their insights, critiques, and exciting upcoming events. The conversation is enriched with personal anecdotes, detailed analyses, and engaging quotes, making it an essential listen for Broadway enthusiasts.

Show Tune of the Day

Peter kicks off the episode by introducing the show tune of the day:

• "I'm Throwing a Ball Tonight" – High Society

  [01:02]
  "It's a delicious song and I recommend it no matter where you find a copy of it." – Peter
  Peter discusses the origins of the song from the 1940 musical Panama Hattie and recommends Cole Porter's revisit on a Ben Bagley album featuring Bobby Shost.

Featured Production: "Stranger Things: The First Shadow"

The trio shares their experiences watching the Broadway adaptation of the popular Netflix series.

Peter’s Perspective:

• Entertainment Without Prior Knowledge
  [07:39]
  "I was tremendously entertained, even though... I certainly was dazzled by all the stagecraft."
  Peter praises the visual spectacle and special effects, noting that prior familiarity with the series wasn't necessary to enjoy the show. He highlights the performance of Lewis McCartney as Harry Henry Creel and Gabriel Niva as Patty Newby, both making their Broadway debuts.

• Curtain Call Transformation
  [09:44]
  "He looks like a completely different person and the curtain call... shows what a good actor he is."
  Emphasizing McCartney's transformative acting skills, Peter encourages staying for the curtain call to witness the full range of the cast's talents.

Michael’s Perspective:

• Special Effects and Performances
  [12:03]
  "I can’t get invested in the characters because I had so many questions about the plot and very strange things that happened."
  While Michael admires the special effects and McCartney's performance, he expresses confusion over the convoluted plot and the multitude of characters, which hindered his emotional investment.

• Audience Engagement
  [17:52]
  "The audience really seemed to absolutely love it."
  Michael notes the positive audience reactions and highlights Stephen Daldry's direction alongside Justin Martin.

James’ Perspective:

• Family Appeal and Future Interest
  [18:52]
  "This is a new type of family show. I think this is a great family show."
  James emphasizes the show's broad appeal, particularly to younger audiences and families, and expresses excitement about re-watching it in London.

• Cross-Pollination with the TV Series
  [21:33]
  "Rob Johnston... it’s quite... magic is amazing."
  He comments on the synergy between the Broadway production and the original Netflix series, anticipating long-term success for the show.

Upcoming Events

Boy Band Brunch at City Winery:

• Venue and Performance Details
  [03:24]
  "They're all just amazing as far as energy and talent and communication with the audience." – Michael
  Michael describes the Boy Band Project's performance, highlighting the talent of Zach Chaney and the interactive nature of the show.

Evening with Sandy Duncan:

• Event Promotion
  [06:56]
  "May 13th." – Michael
  James reminds listeners of the upcoming event with Sandy Duncan at the Lori Beachman Theatre, urging early ticket purchases.

Production Review: "Pirates of Penzance Musical"

The hosts analyze the latest adaptation of the classic Gilbert and Sullivan opera.

Michael’s Critique:

• Stylistic Inconsistencies
  [31:01]
  "It was just an absolute mess from a stylistic standpoint, not to mention a narrative standpoint."
  Michael criticizes the New Orleans setting and the mix of musical styles, feeling that it disrupts the narrative cohesion.

• Performance Highlights and Miscasts
  [38:55]
  "Nicholas Barish I very much enjoyed as Frederick... Samantha Williams as Ruth... seemed very miscast."
  While praising Ramin Karimlou and Nicholas Barish, Michael feels Samantha Williams' portrayal of Ruth falls flat.

Peter’s Praise:

• Emotional Impact and Performances
  [38:57]
  "I liked it immeasurably... the audience responded tremendously to it, too."
  Peter highlights the adaptation's emotional resonance and lauds performances, especially noting the song "Poor Wandering One."

• Modern Arrangements
  [43:10]
  "I really was very, very glad to hear a new take on the orchestration."
  Appreciating the modern orchestrations by Joseph Joubert and Daryl Waters, Peter believes the adaptation offers a fresh take on classic material.

Production Review: "Floyd Collins"

The discussion shifts to the Lincoln Center's production of Floyd Collins.

Michael’s Observations:

• Musical Direction and Cast
  [43:32]
  "Jeremy Jordan... perfectly realized performance."
  Michael praises Jeremy Jordan's portrayal of Floyd Collins and commends the musical direction by Ted Spurling.

• Emotional Depth
  [45:36]
  "The score is extraordinary... 'How Glory Goes' is one of the most beautiful and profound songs ever written."
  Highlighting the musical's emotional depth, Michael admires the songwriters' craftsmanship.

Peter’s Perspective:

• Mixed Feelings on Adam Gittle’s Music
  [49:23]
  "I keep on. It's like I'm chasing a butterfly... I will never ever respond to Floyd Collins."
  Peter expresses difficulty connecting with Adam Gittle's compositions, despite recognizing the show's production quality.

• Performance Highlights
  [52:31]
  "Jeremy Jordan is doing the job. And wonderfully performed is also the role played by Jason Gotez's brother."
  Acknowledging standout performances, Peter appreciates the cast's dedication and emotional portrayal.

James’ Thoughts:

• Personal Reception
  [49:23]
  "This production sort of left me flat."
  James aligns with Peter's lukewarm response but acknowledges the beauty and talent in the production.

• Upcoming Production Mention
  [55:33]
  "A couple of weeks ago Philip Boroff... Ragtime is coming to the Beaumont."
  James announces the upcoming Ragtime production at Lincoln Center, expressing anticipation for its elaborate staging.

Additional Production: "John Proctor is the Villain"

Michael provides an in-depth review of this thought-provoking play.

• Character Complexity and Themes
  [60:12]
  "I absolutely loved it... the dialogue... very layered."
  Michael commends the nuanced portrayal of John Proctor as a flawed protagonist and the realistic dialogue crafted by Kimberly Bellflower.

• Exceptional Performances
  [60:12]
  "Sadie Sink and Nyard Javori, Gabriel Ebert as the teacher. Brilliant... superbly directed by Dania Taymor."
  Highlighting standout performances, Michael praises Gabriel Ebert and the directorial prowess of Dania Taymor.

Brain Teaser

The hosts engage listeners with a Broadway-themed brain teaser:

• Question:
  "Two characters in a musical now playing on West 44th street have something in common with a character whose name is also the title of a currently running musical. These three share the same commonality as a character whose first name was part of the title of a 1960s musical nominated for nine Tonys, but won only one."
  [66:14]

  Listeners are encouraged to ponder and submit their answers via email.

Answer from Previous Week:

• "Belasco" from Barefoot in the Park – Brevity and engagement from Peter with multiple listeners submitting answers.

Closing Remarks

James Marino wraps up the episode by reminding listeners to subscribe via the BroadwayRadio website or through Patreon to avoid automatic advertising. Links and contact information are provided for further engagement.

Michael’s Musical Moment:

• Selections from Floyd Collins
  [67:42]
  Michael shares video selections from the musical's opening number "The Call," performed by Jeremy Jordan, highlighting its melodic beauty and emotional resonance.

Final Thanks:

• James Marino:
  [69:59]
  "On behalf of Michael Portentier and Peter to Felicia, this is James Marino saying thanks so much for listening to Broadway radios this week on Broadway. Bye. Bye."

• Peter and Michael:
  Friendly farewells conclude the episode.

Notable Quotes:

• "It's a delicious song and I recommend it no matter where you find a copy of it." – Peter, [01:02]
• "The audience really seemed to absolutely love it." – Michael Portantier, [17:52]
• "I absolutely loved it... the dialogue... very layered." – Michael Portantier, [60:12]

Upcoming Shows and Events:

• Boy Band Brunch with Boy Band Project at City Winery
• Evening with Sandy Duncan at Lori Beachman Theatre on March 13th
• Pirates of Penzance Musical at Todd Haimes Theater through July 27, 2025
• Floyd Collins at Lincoln Center's Vivian Beaumont Theater
• Ragtime coming to Lincoln Center's Beaumont
• John Proctor is the Villain production running

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe: broadwayradio.com
• Contact: email@broadwayradio.com
• Follow Michael's Photography: followspotphoto.com

This episode of BroadwayRadio offers an in-depth exploration of current Broadway offerings, enriched by the hosts' diverse perspectives and expertise. Whether you're a seasoned theatergoer or new to Broadway, the discussions provide valuable insights and recommendations to enhance your theatrical experiences.