BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary
Episode: This Week on Broadway for August 10, 2025: Jon Maas on David Merrick and 42nd Street
Release Date: August 10, 2025

Overview

In this episode of BroadwayRadio, host James Marino engages with guests Peter Felicia, Michael Portantier, and special guest John Moss to delve deep into the illustrious career of legendary Broadway producer David Merrick, focusing particularly on the iconic musical 42nd Street. The discussion weaves through personal anecdotes, behind-the-scenes insights, and the tumultuous events surrounding the original production.

Key Discussions

1. Show Tune Spotlight: "Only with You" from Nine

Timestamp: [01:59]
Peter Felicia and Maeve discuss the significance of the song "Only with You" from the 2003 revival cast album of Nine, highlighting Antonio Banderas's connection to the musical and his attempted involvement in future productions.

Maeve: "Only with you from the 2003 revival cast album of Nine... Antonio Banderas is still age appropriate."

2. Theatre World Awards and Antonio Banderas Incident

Timestamp: [04:07]
Maeve recounts an amusing yet awkward incident involving Antonio Banderas and Linda Hart during an awards ceremony, illustrating Merrick's complex relationships within the Broadway community.

Maeve: "He came on stage and literally crawled over to her on his hands and knees as if to apologize."

3. Peter Felicia and Friends Review

Timestamp: [06:00]
Peter Felicia shares positive feedback from Cheryl Hodges Seldon's review, praising Jackie Hoffman and the overall performance, while also highlighting the emergence of newcomer Asia Barrows.

Cheryl Hodges Seldon: "Jackie Hoffman was hilarious, as always, and Peter is without equal as a raconteur."

4. Lunch with Jill Eikenberry and Michael Tucker

Timestamp: [11:33]
Maeve narrates a nostalgic lunch encounter with actress Jill Eikenberry, reflecting on past Broadway productions and personal interactions.

Maeve: "It was quite nice that she knew what I was talking about because sometimes people forget their less than stellar situations."

5. John Moss on Working with David Merrick

Timestamp: [17:03]
John Moss shares his experiences as David Merrick's assistant during the original production of 42nd Street. He provides firsthand accounts of Merrick's demanding nature, interactions with notable figures like Woody Herman, Ethel Merman, Bob Fosse, and Gower Champion, and the chaotic yet memorable opening night.

John Moss: "I saw Cliff Jar walk in... Now, if you were to say to me... and suddenly, the house lights blinked on and off, and they made an announcement. Ladies and gentlemen, unfortunately, this performance is going to be canceled."

6. Handling the Press and Cliff Jar's Involvement

Timestamp: [21:37]
John elaborates on the challenges faced with press agent Cliff Jar, leading to a canceled performance due to press scrutiny and Merrick's paranoia.

John Moss: "Cliff Jar was known as a hatchet journalist... Merrick, who was paranoid to begin with, decreed that no one could talk to the press, especially Cliff Jar."

7. David Merrick's Personal Struggles

Timestamp: [42:19]
John reveals the later years of David Merrick, including his addiction to cocaine and the eventual decline that affected his professional and personal life.

John Moss: "David Merrick was addicted to cocaine... he was found in a pile of cocaine when he had the stroke."

8. Helen Nickerson's Role and Departure

Timestamp: [46:23]
John discusses Helen Nickerson's tenure as Merrick's general manager, her eventual firing, and the internal conflicts within the office.

John Moss: "Helen... was one of Cliff Jar's sources... she and Merrick really kind of were in this hate, mutual hate relationship."

9. Critique of Howard Kissel's Book

Timestamp: [49:19]
John criticizes Howard Kissel's portrayal of David Merrick in his book, labeling it as fictional and not reflective of his firsthand experiences.

John Moss: "Howard Kissel's book... is completely fiction. Basically everything that I was present for is bullshit."

Notable Quotes

• Maeve on David Merrick's Focus:
  "He never talked about the past... just wasn't interested. He was just looking forward." [38:59]

• John on Merrick's Leadership Style:
  "He wasted no time making significant decisions, like sending Helen Nickerson back to New York and putting me in charge of the opening night." [32:19]

• John on the Opening Night Party:
  "It was a non-stop 24/7 job... seeing David Merrick drinking white wine in the Wienerwald." [37:34]

• Peter Felicia on Fostered Roles:
  "Peter, I have no idea if you think it's possible that Merrick delayed the official opening..." [24:50]

Concluding Insights

The episode offers an intimate glimpse into the high-stakes world of Broadway production through John Moss's eyes. It underscores David Merrick's relentless drive and complex personality, the intricate dynamics of Broadway productions, and the personal challenges that accompany a life in theater. The candid revelations about Merrick's struggles add depth to his legendary status, painting a picture of a man who was both revered and troubled.

Additional Highlights

• Peter Felicia's Review: Peter shares his thoughts on Michael Portantier's review of the new cast recording of Floyd Collins, praising Jeremy Jordan's performance and the overall quality of the revival's score.

  "Jeremy Jordan brings everything one could ask for to the role of Floyd in terms of vocal beauty, range, and emotional expressiveness." [62:08]

• Community Theater Spotlight: Maeve discusses the community theater production Floating Down to Camelot at the Spotlighters Theater in Baltimore, highlighting its relevance and the strong performances of the cast.

• Musical Moments Tribute: The hosts pay tribute to Jane Morgan, celebrating her legacy and contributions to Broadway, especially her role as Mame in the original Broadway production.

Conclusion

This episode of BroadwayRadio is a treasure trove for theater enthusiasts, offering rich narratives, expert insights, and personal stories that illuminate the behind-the-scenes complexities of Broadway's golden era. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the world of musical theater, the discussions provide valuable perspectives on iconic productions and the people who brought them to life.

For more insights and episodes, subscribe to BroadwayRadio at broadwayradio.com or find them on your preferred podcast platform.