BroadwayRadio: This Week on Broadway for December 22, 2024 – Detailed Summary
Episode Title: This Week on Broadway for December 22, 2024: Gypsy
Host: BroadwayRadio (James Marino)
Guests: Peter Felicia, Michael Portentier, Ron Fassler
Release Date: December 22, 2024
1. Introduction and Guest Introductions
The episode kicks off with host James Marino welcoming listeners to "This Week on Broadway." He introduces the panelists:
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Peter Felicia: A multifaceted playwright, journalist, and historian known for his latest work, Day by Day Wall Calendar Show Tune for Today, 366 Songs to Brighten Your Year. He contributes columns to outlets like Masterworks Broadway and Broadway Select.
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Michael Portentier: A respected theater reviewer and essayist, founder and editor of CastAlbumReviews.com, and a renowned theatrical photographer with works featured in major publications. His photography portfolio is available at fowspotphoto.com.
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Ron Fassler: A recurring guest on Broadway Radio, Ron is a seasoned theater historian and author of The Show Goes On: Broadway's Hirings, Firings, and Replacements. He joins the discussion to delve into his latest book and share insights on Broadway’s intricate dynamics.
Notable Quote:
James Marino [01:23]: “Peter's new Day by Day Wall Calendar Show Tune for Today, 366 Songs to Brighten Your Year has been released. So, Peter, very exciting.”
2. Discussion of Ron Fassler's New Book
James Marino introduces Ron Fassler, highlighting his blog Theater Yesterday and Today and his extensive research into Broadway replacements. Ron shares the inspiration behind his book:
Ron Fassler [03:26]: “I realized one column wouldn't do it, so I wrote a second, then a third. The response was amazing, and nobody really ever talks about what goes into a replacement on Broadway. That's when the book idea took shape.”
Ron details his process of interviewing over a hundred individuals and scouring historical archives to compile a comprehensive account of Broadway replacements. He emphasizes the complexities actors face when stepping into established roles, often overshadowed by previous performances.
Notable Quote:
Ron Fassler [05:10]: “There are people who take trains to get to the destination in order to replace a flailing actor during an out-of-town tryout. It’s incredible. It’s heroic, really.”
3. Gypsy Production Review and Insights
The core of the episode revolves around the revival of Gypsy at the Majestic Theatre. Peter Felicia and Ron Fassler provide in-depth reviews, complemented by Michael Portentier's observations.
Peter Felicia [24:33]: Discusses the use of a stuffed lamb as Louise’s birthday present, suggesting it symbolizes her childlike perseverance despite adversity. He praises George C. Wolf’s direction, highlighting nuanced stage details like Papa’s Bible in the "Some People" scene and the emotional depth of Rose’s interactions.
Ron Fassler [30:43]: Appreciates the casting of Audra McDonald and Danny Burstein, noting their compelling performances. He reflects on the historical significance of Gypsy’s numerous revivals and its enduring appeal compared to contemporaries like The Sound of Music and Fiorello!.
Notable Quote:
Ron Fassler [22:52]: “Nobody wrote a love letter to an actor like Walter Kerr. Nobody, nobody could do it like he did.”
Michael Portentier [35:52]: Commends Audra McDonald’s performance, despite initial skepticism. He asserts, “She’s one of the best actresses the musical theater has ever known.”
Peter Felicia [41:24]: Critiques the portrayal of Louise, expressing concerns over the lack of transformative energy in her character arc compared to previous renditions. However, he acknowledges strong elements like Rose’s teenage rebellion and the clever staging of critical scenes.
Ron Fassler [43:27]: Emphasizes the remarkable achievements of the current Gypsy production, recommending it despite controversies surrounding color-conscious casting.
Notable Quotes:
Peter Felicia [07:45]: “I wrote something once and you responded to it because you were there the same night I was… Lonnie Price tearing the house down.”
Ron Fassler [43:43]: “There are people who are going to be shocked and surprised by what happens during Gypsy. They don’t know it.”
4. Reviews of Other Broadway Productions
Eureka Day at Samuel J. Friedman Theatre
Michael Portentier reviews Jonathan Spector’s Eureka Day, noting its satirical take on ultra-woke parents navigating a mumps outbreak and vaccination policies. He praises Anna De Shapiro’s direction and the standout performances by Amber Gray and Jessica Hecht.
Cult of Love at Helen Hayes Theatre
Portentier discusses Cult of Love by Leslie Hedlund, highlighting its exploration of family dynamics amidst shifting religious beliefs. He commends the strong performances by the ensemble cast, including Zachary Quinto and Shailene Woodley.
Two Gentlemen of Verona Benefit Concert at Symphony Space
Michael reviews Red Bull Theater's benefit concert of Two Gentlemen of Verona, lauding the professionalism and casting, particularly Jordan Donica and Jin Ha. He contrasts this rendition with previous productions, noting significant improvements despite criticisms of the score adaptation.
Elf at The Marquee
Portentier shares his mixed feelings about the Elf production, praising Gray Henson’s performance while criticizing Philip William McKinley’s direction for overly broad performances. He offers practical ticketing advice for listeners to secure better prices by visiting box offices directly.
Notable Quotes:
Michael Portentier [49:43]: “Eureka Day is a brilliant satire on the lengths people go to avoid offense, brilliantly directed and magnificently acted.”
Peter Felicia [57:42]: “I have to say that what I felt was that it was a minor league version of August: Osage County. If there were no August: Osage County, I would really love this play.”
5. Brain Teaser Recap
The episode includes a brain teaser segment, where Peter Felicia discusses a historical Broadway review and poses a question about a performer who replaced roles in Disney musicals and is referenced in Mel Brooks’ musicals.
Teaser:
“Considering what its title was, it could have just as easily had the same name as the Jason Robert Brown musical. What is it? Julius Monk's 1964 review at the Plaza Hotel called Baker's Dozen.”
Solution:
Answer: Tony Janicki, referenced in Mel Brooks' musical lyrics.
6. Musical Moments
Michael Portentier curates a segment dedicated to Christmas music, spotlighting Julie Andrews’ contributions. He highlights:
- "Oh, Come All Ye Faithful" from Andrews’ 1982 Christmas album arranged by Ian Fraser.
- "The Christmas Song" from the Firestone Christmas albums, arranged by Erwin Costello.
He also shares a link to the 1987 TV special The Sound of Christmas, featuring Julie Andrews alongside Placido Domingo and John Denver, praising its delightful performances and nostalgic appeal.
Notable Quote:
Michael Portentier [75:13]: “Julie Andrews made three full Christmas albums, one in 1967 arranged by Andre Previn, and others in 1982 and 1990 arranged by Ian Fraser. These selections capture her timeless charm.”
7. Closing Remarks
James Marino wraps up the episode, encouraging listeners to subscribe via broadwayradio.com or patreon.com/broadwayradio for exclusive content. He thanks guests and offers contact information for further engagement.
Notable Quote:
James Marino [78:34]: “On behalf of Michael Portentier and Peter Felicia, I'm James Marino saying thanks so much for listening to Broadway Radio's This Week on Broadway. Bye!”
Conclusion
This episode of BroadwayRadio offers a deep dive into Ron Fassler's latest book on Broadway replacements, insightful reviews of current productions like Gypsy, Eureka Day, and Cult of Love, alongside thoughtful segments on musical theater trivia and curated Christmas music. The panelists provide a blend of historical context, personal experiences, and critical analysis, making it a valuable listen for theater enthusiasts seeking comprehensive updates and discussions on Broadway’s vibrant landscape.
For more details and to access the discussed content, visit broadwayradio.com