BroadwayRadio: This Week on Broadway for February 9, 2025 – Urinetown @ Encores!

Hosted by BroadwayRadio

1. Welcome and Introductions

James Marino kicks off the episode by welcoming his guests, Peter Felicia and Michael Portentier. Peter, a multifaceted playwright, journalist, and historian, introduces his latest project—a day-by-day wall calendar titled A Show Tune for Today: 366 Songs to Brighten Your Year. Michael, a seasoned theater reviewer and essayist, shares insights from his work with castalbumreviews.com and his experience as a theatrical photographer.

2. Song of the Day: "Heart and Soul" from Forever Plaid

Peter announces the song of the day, “Heart and Soul” from the musical Forever Plaid. He ties the selection to a significant historical event on February 9, 1964, referencing the record-breaking Ed Sullivan Show featuring selections from Oliver! and Tessie O'Shea from The Girl Who Came to Supper.
“Heart and Soul From Forever Plaid, February 9, 1964.” ([01:25])

3. New Releases and Supporting Broadway

Peter discusses his new calendar, available at Drama Bookshop and online retailers like Amazon. He encourages listeners to support the Drama Bookshop, emphasizing the importance of backing Broadway-related businesses.
“Support Drama Bookshop. Get over there and get a show tune for today, 366 songs to brighten your year.” ([02:48])

4. Sondheim's Reign: Sweeney Todd Tops the Poll

Michael shares the results of a poll from the Stephen Sondheim Group on Facebook, revealing that Sweeney Todd overwhelmingly topped the list as the favorite Sondheim musical. He adds, “I was very gratified that Sweeney Todd was chosen because I would absolutely place that as number one myself.” ([03:53])

5. Engaging the Community with Brain Teasers

Michael presents a brain teaser related to musicals: “There's a musical that has two lead characters that have names that sound the same as two real life people who collaborated on another musical...” ([06:35]) Peter eventually answers correctly, identifying City of Angels and the collaborators Julie Stein and Peter Stone.

6. Urinetown @ Encores!: A Detailed Review

Michael delves into the latest Encores! production of Urinetown at City Center, reflecting on its enduring appeal over 24 years. He praises elements like Mark Holman's music and Greg Kodis' book but critiques aspects such as casting choices and directorial consistency. Notably, he commends Tiffany Mann's performance as Penelope Pennywise, highlighting her professionalism and vocal prowess.
“Tiffany Mann... had an absolute triumph as far as just really saving the production and being so 1000% professional.” ([16:30])

Peter recalls the emotional moment when Urinetown was first seen before the tragic events of September 11, 2001, emphasizing the show's resilience and intelligent satire.
“It's so amazing that this show with this terrible title has been done so many times.” ([17:19])

7. Celebrating the Ed Kleban Prize for Musical Theater

Peter provides an overview of the recently awarded Ed Kleban Prize for Musical Theater, honoring his legacy as the lyricist behind A Chorus Line. This year, Benjamin Velez and Madeline Myers received $100,000 each for their promising work in lyrics and librettos.
“Benjamin Velez was the winner for the most promising lyricist while Madeline Myers was the winner for the most promising librettist.” ([21:27])

8. Spotlight on the 121 Project Showcase

Michael discusses the inaugural year of the 121 Project at the Lucy Lindet Theater, which showcases excerpts from five new musicals in development. He praises the quality and professionalism of the showcased productions, expressing hope for their future success on Broadway.
“I was so happy and gratified that all of them seemed very, very worthy.” ([27:42])

9. Recent Performances: Schmigadoon and Vanessa Opera

Michael shares his experiences attending Schmigadoon at the Kennedy Center, lauding its humorous take on classic musicals and strong audience reception despite mixed professional reviews. He also reviews a rare production of the opera Vanessa, highlighting stellar performances by Susan Graham and Thomas Hampson.
“I absolutely loved this show... great cast.” ([31:56])

10. Remembering Tony Roberts

The hosts pay tribute to the late Tony Roberts, reminiscing about his contributions to Broadway and his professionalism. Peter fondly recalls Roberts’ acknowledgment of his acting teacher, Alvina Kraus, underscoring the importance of mentorship in theater.
“He really did a lot. I really enjoy him on the London cast album of Promises Promises.” ([53:56])

11. Upcoming Productions: Big Fish Revival and More

James Marino announces the upcoming reading of a Big Fish revival featuring Patrick Wilson. He encourages Broadway enthusiasts to secure tickets promptly as productions gain popularity and ticket prices rise.
“If you're a Broadway fan and a completist... you gotta get on these tickets immediately today.” ([58:07])

12. Musical Moments: Celebrating Bobby Darin

Michael introduces the Musical Moments segment, featuring two of Bobby Darin’s original recordings: “Just In Time” from Bells Are Ringing and “Artificial Flowers” from Tenderloin. He reflects on Darin’s influence in bringing show tunes into pop culture.
“Please enjoy these two recordings of Just In Time and Artificial Flowers by Bobby Darin.” ([66:55])

13. Closing and Brain Teaser Answer

Peter revisits the earlier brain teaser, providing an additional clue about two musicals opening 11 days apart in the early '60s, each featuring an 11 o'clock number mentioning credit cards. The answer involves recognizing connections between well-known and lesser-known musicals, encouraging listeners to engage with the trivia.

Notable Quotes:

• “Heart and Soul From Forever Plaid, February 9, 1964.” – Peter Felicia ([01:25])

• “I was very gratified that Sweeney Todd was chosen because I would absolutely place that as number one myself.” – Michael Portentier ([03:53])

• “Tiffany Mann... had an absolute triumph as far as just really saving the production and being so 1000% professional.” – Michael Portentier ([16:30])

• “Benjamin Velez was the winner for the most promising lyricist while Madeline Myers was the winner for the most promising librettist.” – Peter Felicia ([21:27])

• “I absolutely loved this show... great cast.” – Michael Portentier ([31:56])

• “Please enjoy these two recordings of Just In Time and Artificial Flowers by Bobby Darin.” – Michael Portentier ([66:55])

Final Thoughts

This episode of BroadwayRadio offers a comprehensive dive into contemporary Broadway happenings, from in-depth reviews of Urinetown and Schmigadoon to celebrating emerging talents through prestigious awards like the Ed Kleban Prize. The hosts engage listeners with thoughtful discussions, memorable quotes, and interactive segments, making it a must-listen for theater enthusiasts seeking to stay informed and connected with the Broadway community.

For more detailed discussions and updates, subscribe to BroadwayRadio at broadwayradio.com or support them on Patreon.