BroadwayRadio: This Week on Broadway for December 15, 2024 – Adam Lambert in Cabaret
Released on December 15, 2024
Introduction
In this episode of BroadwayRadio, hosts James Marino, Peter Felicia, and Michael Portantiere delve into the latest happenings on Broadway, offering insightful reviews, heartfelt tributes, and engaging discussions. The episode prominently features Adam Lambert's role as a replacement in Cabaret, tributes to the late Paul Guest Smith, and updates on various Broadway productions and venues.
Tribute to Paul Guest Smith
The episode opens with James Marino paying a heartfelt tribute to his late friend, Paul Guest Smith, a revered figure in the Staten Island Community Theater. Paul was celebrated for his exceptional work as both a director and actor. Marino shares a poignant memory from a production of Macbeth:
"I'll never forget how gracious he was under very trying circumstances... he just remained calm and did what had to be done." [01:38]
The hosts reflect on Paul's professionalism and the profound impact he had on the community, noting the significant turnout at his memorial service.
Adam Lambert as a Replacement in Cabaret
A significant portion of the discussion centers on Adam Lambert joining Cabaret as a replacement. Michael Portantiere shares his experience watching Lambert perform:
"Adam Lambert is a newcomer to Broadway and so therefore he's eligible for a Theater World Award. So as a result, I did go and he was quite good." [12:42]
Portantiere praises Lambert's performance but notes an increase in the production's raunchiness compared to previous iterations:
"He mentions a sex act by name that I've never heard mentioned in a musical... if you're on the prudish side, I don't think this is the logical time for you to see this production." [14:05]
Peter Felicia adds that initial reservations about Lambert were overcome after viewing his live performances, highlighting his vocal prowess.
Understudies.org: A Valuable Resource
The hosts spotlight the website understudies.org, a daily-updated resource listing Broadway understudies. James Marino emphasizes its utility:
"It's a great service. It's free. So I just wanted to make everyone aware of it." [21:32]
Peter Felicia commends the dedication behind maintaining such a comprehensive platform, celebrating the 140,000 email alerts sent to theatergoers.
Show Reviews
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Duality at Art on 53rd Street
Michael Portantiere shares his lukewarm response to Duality, criticizing the production's direction and plot execution:
"When a playwright, director and producer are the same person, that's never a good sign. So I wish I could say something good about Duality, but I definitely, definitely cannot." [23:42]
The play's unconventional entrances and lackluster audience engagement left a negative impression on Portantiere.
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Ben Jones at Birdland
Ben Jones delivered a standout performance at Birdland, collaborating with jazz pianist Lawrence Hobgood. Michael praises the authentic jazz medleys and Jones' versatility:
"They collaborated and it was really a perfect show for Birdland because it was real authentic jazz to my ears." [26:32]
The performance included extended renditions of classics like "Lush Life" and showcased Jones' ability to explore different musical realms.
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Music City at West End Theater
Music City is lauded for its immersive club-like design and captivating country music performances. Michael highlights the effective portrayal of drug themes in unexpected characters:
"The music really is intoxicatingly wonderful, and I really had a wonderful time listening to it." [30:38]
The show's narrative intertwines a record producer's journey with the pressures of the music industry, all set against Nashville's vibrant backdrop.
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Beautiful Land I Seek at Puerto Rican Traveling Theater
Michael discusses this historically infused production, noting its exploration of an assassination attempt on President Harry Truman by Puerto Ricans in 1952. He commends the cast's performances and the play's educational value:
"It's a very effective piece of theater, and it's very nice to be back on 47th street and 8th Avenue with Theater that hasn't done very much in recent years." [34:11]
The production's ability to resonate with Puerto Rican audiences adds depth to the historical narrative.
YouTube Discoveries
James Marino shares his recent YouTube explorations, including a complete recording of the 1978 musical Angel and a 1995 PBS concert celebrating Oscar Hammerstein II hosted by Julie Andrews. He provides detailed observations on performances and production critiques, encouraging listeners to explore these archived materials.
News Update: West Bank Cafe Saved
A significant piece of Broadway news involves the salvation of the West Bank Cafe. Initially reported as closing under Steve Olson's ownership, it was clarified that Tom and Michael Dangora have taken over, ensuring the venue's continuation:
"They're going full steam ahead. And my understanding is that it's going to reopen after only a very brief, very brief hiatus with still under the same name." [50:55]
The hosts express optimism for the venue's future, praising the Dangoras' dedication to preserving Broadway's cultural landmarks.
Brain Teaser and Musical Moment
The episode concludes with a brain teaser and a musical moment featuring Ben Jones' performances from Company and Dear World. The brain teaser challenges listeners to identify a unique publication related to a musical:
"Reviews seldom if ever get published in hardcover by a maker or publisher. This one did. Considering what its title was, it could have just as easily had the same name as a Jason Robert Brown musical. What is it?" [59:18]
Listeners are encouraged to engage and respond via email.
Closing Remarks
James Marino, Peter Felicia, and Michael Portantiere wrap up the episode by promoting their platforms, encouraging subscriptions, and acknowledging contributions from listeners. They also highlight additional Broadway-related content and upcoming shows, ensuring their audience remains informed and entertained.
Notable Quotes
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"I hate Jerry Williams. But, but I know if I say Jerry Williams, I'm not going to get on. So I said, Donny Osmond..." – Michael Portantiere [06:22]
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"It's a great service. It's free. So I just wanted to make everyone aware of it." – James Marino [22:03]
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"They collaborated and it was really a perfect show for Birdland because it was real authentic jazz to my ears." – Michael Portantiere [26:32]
Conclusion
This week's episode of BroadwayRadio offers a rich tapestry of Broadway insights, from in-depth show reviews and personal tributes to essential resources for theater enthusiasts. Adam Lambert's dynamic entry into Cabaret serves as a focal point, while the hosts' passion for theater shines through every discussion. Whether you're a seasoned theatergoer or a Broadway newcomer, this episode provides valuable perspectives and keeps you connected to the vibrant world of Broadway.