BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary Episode: This Week on Broadway for February 16, 2025: The Antiquities @ Playwrights Horizons Release Date: February 16, 2025
Introduction
In the February 16, 2025 episode of BroadwayRadio, host James Marino engages with renowned guests Peter Felicia and Jan Simpson to discuss the latest happenings in the Broadway scene. The episode delves into new productions, ongoing performances, and industry insights, providing listeners with an in-depth analysis of current trends and performances on Broadway.
Show Highlights and Discussions
Musical Spotlight: Mrs. Henderson
Peter Felicia introduces the show's tune for the day, selecting the opening song from Mrs. Henderson Presents. This musical celebrates the resilient Windmill Theatre in London during World War II, highlighting its unique survival amidst the bombings and its controversial use of nudity in performances.
Peter Felicia [01:21]: "It's a terrific opening number, great fun entirely. And I think it will keep you listening to the rest of the score as well."
James Marino draws parallels between historical challenges faced by theaters and contemporary issues, particularly referencing the Kennedy Center.
James Marino [02:26]: "I tell you, it's very similar to today, isn't it?"
Theater Industry Insights: Playwrights Horizons and Upcoming Events
Peter shares his ongoing project of annotating The Season for the Theater World Awards, offering fascinating insights into historical productions and notable figures like Marlene Dietrich. He also discusses the financial backing for upcoming shows at Playwrights Horizons, expressing optimism about future productions.
Peter Felicia [03:33]: "There was a reminiscence of a guy talking about the song she sang, and I wondered if he was correct."
Current Productions and Reviews
The Antiquities @ Playwrights Horizons
Jan Simpson provides an overview of The Antiquities, a speculative narrative set in a future where AI has replaced humans. The play explores themes of technology and humanity through a museum exhibit format, featuring scenes from different eras.
Jan Simpson [12:59]: "Jordan Harrison is so smart and he finds a way to deal with the science fiction of it all, to ask intellectual questions about why it is that we're so intent on creating this kind of technology."
Peter elaborates on the play’s structure and set design, praising Paul Steinberg's work for its minimalist yet effective transformation of the stage.
Peter Felicia [17:28]: "Paul Steinberg... things appear and disappear with lightning speed. It is an impressive set for what it does in the time that it takes to do it."
Still @ Sheen Center
The conversation shifts to Still, a play centered on a politically divided society. Peter critiques the play's brevity and depth, expressing a desire for a more comprehensive exploration of its themes.
Peter Felicia [24:09]: "I just read a fascinating book... but there's lots and lots of characters in this play."
Jan notes the extended run of the play and provides a link for listeners to explore further details.
My Man Kono @ Art New York
Jan discusses My Man Kono, a biographical play about Torachi Kono, a Japanese immigrant and chauffeur for Charlie Chaplin. The play delves into Kono’s life and his unjust detention during World War II.
Jan Simpson [27:03]: "Philip W. Chang... the difficulty for me with the show is that Chang packs in so much information."
Peter offers a contrasting perspective, praising the performances and the passionate portrayal of Kono’s attorney, who fights diligently for justice.
Peter Felicia [31:22]: "Brian Lee Hunt plays Kono... Robert Meskin as his attorney was really passionate, which is really quite wonderful."
Maiden Mother Crone @ The Flea
Peter and Jan review Maiden Mother Crone, a duet of solo plays exploring complex mother-daughter relationships. Peter critiques the pieces for lacking depth and being overly simplistic, while Jan appreciates the performances but acknowledges the show's length as a drawback.
Peter Felicia [34:39]: "I hated it because it's one of these shows with the girls so perky... But I have to say that Ms. Unga will be at least pleased to hear that."
Jan Simpson [37:04]: "The actresses in that opening night cast are very accomplished and very good comedians."
Industry News and Commentary
Kennedy Center Challenges
The hosts discuss recent political challenges faced by the Kennedy Center, including leadership changes and the impact of new administrative policies on programming and funding. Concerns are raised about potential reductions in NEA funding and the implications for regional theaters.
Jan Simpson [59:14]: "President dismissed many of the board members... some shows were closed for not meeting the new standards."
James Marino [61:30]: "The Antiquities at Playwrights Horizons was partially supported by an NEA grant."
Funding and Political Influence
The conversation highlights the delicate balance between artistic integrity and political influence, emphasizing the importance of individual donations and ticket sales in sustaining major institutions like the Kennedy Center.
James Marino [61:48]: "A vast majority of the Kennedy center budget is funded by donations and by ticket sales... they're not living high on the taxpayer dollars as much as some would like to pretend."
Closing Segment: Brain Teaser
The episode concludes with a brain teaser challenge for listeners, encouraging engagement and participation through the podcast's website and social media channels.
Notable Quotes
- Peter Felicia [01:21]: "It's a terrific opening number, great fun entirely."
- Jan Simpson [12:59]: "Jordan Harrison is so smart and he finds a way to deal with the science fiction of it all."
- Peter Felicia [24:09]: "I just read a fascinating book... but there's lots and lots of characters in this play."
- Jan Simpson [27:03]: "Philip W. Chang... the difficulty for me with the show is that Chang packs in so much information."
Conclusion
This week's episode of BroadwayRadio offers a comprehensive look into current Broadway productions, insightful critiques, and important industry developments. Hosts James Marino, Peter Felicia, and Jan Simpson provide listeners with valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of theater, making it an essential listen for Broadway enthusiasts.
For more details on the shows discussed, visit BroadwayRadio and follow their social media channels for updates and additional content.