BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary Episode: This Week on Broadway for December 1, 2024: Room 1214 @ 59e59

Introduction In this episode of BroadwayRadio's premier podcast, hosts James Marino, Peter Felicia, and Michael Portantier dive deep into the latest happenings and productions on Broadway. Skipping the usual advertisements and introductions, the conversation swiftly moves into substantial content, providing listeners with rich insights and detailed reviews of current and upcoming Broadway shows.

Gavin Krill Memorial Timestamp: [01:31] - [04:24]

Michael Portantier opens the discussion by highlighting the upcoming memorial for Gavin Krill at the St. James Theater. Scheduled for December 2nd at 4 PM, with doors opening an hour prior, Michael notes the significant anticipation surrounding the event:

“These memorials... don't usually completely fill up... but sometimes they do, especially for really beloved people like Hal Prince. And I think that Gavin was beloved.”
– Michael Portantier [02:10]

He praises Gavin’s multifaceted talent as a performer, songwriter, composer, lyricist, and dancer, urging listeners to check out Gavin’s work, specifically Walk on Through, a commissioned piece by the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Peter Felicia adds to the conversation, emphasizing Gavin’s involvement in major Broadway productions such as Into the Woods, Waitress, and Book of Mormon, underscoring his significant impact on Broadway.

Merchant of Venice at Classic Stage Company Timestamp: [06:15] - [12:22]

Peter Felicia shares his experience at the Classic Stage Company's production of Merchant of Venice. Directed by Igor Goliak (an alias for Jamie Lloyd), the play takes a deconstructive approach, emphasizing its comedic elements:

“Portia, when she's doing the courtroom scene, shows up in a Superman outfit. I mean, really, the real thing with the S and the great big red S.”
– Peter Felicia [06:30]

He praises the production for omitting the traditionally heavy scene involving the rings, allowing for a lighter narrative flow. However, Peter expresses concern over the play's handling of its anti-Semitic themes, while Michael Portantier voices his previous dissatisfaction with similar productions, though both agree that the current rendition has its merits.

Shit Meets Fan at Manhattan Chamber Theater (MCC) Timestamp: [13:49] - [20:15]

Michael Portantier reviews Shit Meets Fan, a co-production between Signature and Manhattan Theater Club, starring a notable cast including Neil Patrick Harris and Jane Krakowski. The play centers around a party during a lunar eclipse where guests agree to share all their phone messages for an hour, leading to unexpected revelations and chaos.

“Every single scandalous thing that wound up happening... was almost everyone involved sex.”
– Michael Portantier [16:50]

Both Michael and Peter critique the play for its lack of diverse scandals beyond sexual revelations, arguing that it diminishes the potential depth of the narrative. Despite mixed reviews, they acknowledge the strong performances and the play’s controversial twist ending, inviting listeners to form their own opinions.

Room 1214 @ 59 East 59 Timestamp: [21:15] - [25:24]

Peter Felicia enthusiastically reviews Room 1214 at 59 East 59, a powerful play based on a real high school shooting. The narrative follows teacher Ivy Schamis as she returns to the now-demolishing school to confront her traumatic past.

“It's extraordinarily powerful... and beautifully calibrated.”
– Peter Felicia [21:30]

He commends the performances, particularly Annabelle Gorich as Ivy and Ben Hirshhorn as Nate, highlighting the play’s balance of humor and emotional depth. Peter notes the clever set design and the gradual revelation of the school's notorious history, enhancing the play's emotional impact.

Mama. I'm a Big Girl Now at New World Stages Timestamp: [25:57] - [31:18]

Michael Portantier discusses Mama. I'm a Big Girl Now, a reunion musical featuring Marissa Jarrett Winokur, Carrie Butler, and Laura Bell Bundy—original cast members from Hairspray. The show delves into the personal lives of these women, focusing on their marriages and motherhood, all set to pre-existing musical numbers.

“Marissa’s voice... has more depth to it, which is not surprising as she's gotten older.”
– Michael Portantier [28:15]

He praises the seamless integration of storytelling and music, as well as the performers' chemistry and versatility. The production’s use of projections and personal anecdotes adds a heartfelt dimension, making it a delightful and moving experience for audiences.

Bad Creole at Signature Theater Timestamp: [31:55] - [35:17]

Peter Felicia reviews Bad Creole, a co-production between Signature Theater and Manhattan Theater Club, written and directed by Dominique Morisot. The play explores cultural and familial tensions as an American protagonist, Simone, returns to Haiti to address unresolved conflicts.

“The set, first off the Scrim, is glorious... it fills the entire stage.”
– Peter Felicia [32:10]

While acknowledging the play’s elegant set design and strong performances, Peter critiques the predictability of the plot, noting a lack of surprising twists. Nonetheless, he commends Morisot’s craftsmanship and expresses anticipation for her future works.

Anne and Liz Calloway at 54 Below Timestamp: [35:48] - [40:41]

Michael Portantier shares his experience attending Anne and Liz Calloway’s latest performance at 54 Below. The Calloway sisters deliver a dynamic show featuring a mix of classic hits and personal stories.

“They opened with the Schuyler sisters from Hamilton into the Chuck Mangione song as ‘Long As We’re Together.’”
– Michael Portantier [36:00]

He lauds their vocal talents, particularly highlighting Laura Bell Bundy’s impressive imitations of iconic singers like Judy Garland and Celine Dion. Anne’s original compositions and Liz’s sensitive performances of songs like “Cloudburst” further elevate the show, making it a memorable evening.

Joel Gray's New York Times Article on Cabaret Timestamp: [40:58] - [46:25]

Michael Portantier and Peter Felicia delve into Joel Gray’s New York Times opinion piece, which revisits the controversial line from Cabaret:

“If you could see her through my eyes, she wouldn't look Jewish at all.”
– Joel Gray [41:15]

Joel Gray reflects on the evolution of audience perceptions of Cabaret, questioning whether recent reactions are signs of deep-seated bigotry or mere detachment. Both hosts appreciate Gray’s insightful analysis, recognizing the enduring relevance of Cabaret’s themes in contemporary society.

Brain Teaser Timestamp: [47:59] - [49:13]

Peter Felicia presents a challenging brain teaser related to Broadway history and current productions, inviting listeners to engage and respond via email. The teaser bridges classic musicals with modern-day references, encouraging fans to connect past and present Broadway narratives.

Musical Moments: Wicked Movie Timestamp: [49:23] - [53:51]

Michael Portantier announces the release of the Wicked film adaptation, celebrating its box office success despite initial mixed reviews. He reflects on his personal journey with the musical, expressing excitement for the movie's potential and the introduction of new songs for a planned sequel.

“The only word for it is phenomenal... and Lord only knows how much higher it's going to go.”
– Michael Portantier [50:00]

Listeners are treated to excerpts from the Wicked soundtrack, including a rendition of Defying Gravity and the enchanting Oz Dust Duet, highlighting the film’s musical allure.

Closing Remarks James Marino wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to subscribe via BroadwayRadio's website and explore additional content available through Patreon. He previews upcoming bonus episodes, including deep dives into Wicked and interviews with Broadway stars like Mandy Gonzalez.

Notable Quotes:

1. Michael Portantier on Gavin Krill:

   “These memorials... don't usually completely fill up... but sometimes they do, especially for really beloved people like Hal Prince. And I think that Gavin was beloved.”
   [02:10]

2. Peter Felicia on Merchant of Venice:

   “It is extraordinarily powerful... and beautifully calibrated.”
   [21:30]

3. Michael Portantier on Shit Meets Fan:

   “Every single scandalous thing that wound up happening... was almost everyone involved sex.”
   [16:50]

4. Peter Felicia on Room 1214:

   “It's extraordinarily powerful... and beautifully calibrated.”
   [21:30]

5. Michael Portantier on Mama. I'm a Big Girl Now:

   “Marissa’s voice... has more depth to it, which is not surprising as she's gotten older.”
   [28:15]

Conclusion This episode of BroadwayRadio offers a comprehensive look at current Broadway productions, memorials, and insightful commentary on classic shows’ enduring impact. With detailed reviews, engaging discussions, and thoughtful analysis, listeners are well-equipped to stay informed and enriched by the vibrant world of Broadway.

For more information and to access the full content discussed, visit broadwayradio.com.