BroadwayRadio: This Week on Broadway for July 7, 2025 – Detailed Summary

Release Date: July 6, 2025

1. Introduction

In this episode of BroadwayRadio, hosts James Marino, Peter Felicia, and Michael Portantier delve into a variety of Broadway-related topics. From nostalgic softball traditions among Broadway casts to in-depth reviews of current productions, the trio offers listeners a comprehensive look at the latest happenings in the Broadway scene.

2. Broadway Show League and Aladdin’s Taunting Song

Timestamp: [00:51]

Peter Felicia kicks off the discussion by highlighting a unique tradition within the Broadway community: the Broadway Show League's annual softball games. These games, which have been a staple since 1955, bring together cast members from various shows in a friendly competition.

Michael Portantier shares an anecdote from 2016 when the Aladdin cast triumphed over the Hamilton cast, breaking Hamilton's undefeated streak in the Broadway softball league. He notes, “There are no stars here. They are stars if they're good at softball” ([03:25]).

Peter also points out historical moments, including a 1961 softball game featuring legends like Lucille Ball and Julie Andrews, emphasizing the camaraderie and equal footing these events provide for Broadway artists.

3. Jan Simpson’s Podcast Series and Pulitzer Prize-Winning Musicals

Timestamp: [07:14]

The hosts transition to discussing Jan Simpson's series, "All the Drama", which focuses on Pulitzer Prize-winning musicals. This month's feature is "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying".

Peter Felicia shares a trivia question: “Name all 10 Pulitzer-winning musicals,” emphasizing the rarity, as only ten musicals have received this honor in over a century of the Pulitzer Prizes.

Michael Portantier and James Marino offer their insights into why "How to Succeed" was a surprising choice for the Pulitzer, given its satirical take on the business world. Marino reflects, “It's so brilliantly written. From a great adaptation of the source material...” ([13:08]).

The discussion also touches upon the musical's enduring relevance and potential for revival, with Michael highlighting character development and the show's satirical elements.

4. "Don Giovanni – A Rock Opera" at the Cutting Room: Detailed Review

Timestamp: [19:22]

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to reviewing "Mozart’s Don Giovanni – A Rock Opera", currently playing at the Cutting Room.

James Marino provides an enthusiastic overview, praising the adaptation by Adam B. Levovitz. He states, “The singing was really superb from everyone, including Ryan Silverman... I was thrilled by the quality of the singing in this production and the acting as well. So a high, high, high recommendation” ([31:37]).

Key Points:

• Adaptation: The opera is performed in English with rock orchestrations, aiming to connect with modern audiences.
• Cast: Features notable performers like Ryan Silverman (Don Giovanni) and Rachel Zatkoff (Donna Elvira).
• Production Insights: Some characters, such as Zerlina and Mazzetto, have been cut to streamline the performance, reducing the playtime from four hours to two.
• Musical Arrangement: While most songs are adapted to a rock style, the famous serenade retains its traditional melody, maintaining a balance between old and new.
• Performance Quality: James commends the superb vocals and engaging performances, making the production accessible even to those unfamiliar with the original opera.

Michael Portantier echoes the positive reception, though he admits to limited prior knowledge of opera, emphasizing the production's ability to stand on its own merits.

5. "Father Anonymous" Review at AMT Theater

Timestamp: [35:09]

The hosts move on to discuss "Father Anonymous" at the AMT Theater. Here, Michael Portantier offers a critical perspective:

Michael Portantier: “This was quite the slog, I'm sorry to say... [He criticizes the acting, directorial choices, and the portrayal of historical figures, particularly John Hancock.]” ([40:45])

Conversely, Peter Felicia shares a contrasting viewpoint, praising the play's insight into modern American men's issues and lauding John Krasinski's performance:

Peter Felicia: “We both loved it. It was really, really wonderful... [Emphasizes the play's relevance and Krasinski's challenging role.]” ([55:52])

This divergent discussion highlights the subjective nature of theater reviews, offering listeners multiple perspectives on the same production.

6. "Out of Order" at East Village Basement Review

Timestamp: [58:15]

Michael Portantier reviews "Out of Order" at the East Village Basement, a more experimental production:

Michael Portantier: “... [He criticizes the frenetic performance style and lack of engagement, describing it as poorly executed and uninteresting.]” ([62:33])

Peter Felicia concurs, sharing a personal experience of initially struggling to secure tickets but ultimately finding the performance worthwhile after attending.

7. "Broadway by the Boardwalk" – Hudson River Park Outdoor Performances

Timestamp: [58:15]

The hosts promote the "Broadway by the Boardwalk" outdoor performance series at Hudson River Park, detailing upcoming acts:

• July 7: Jennifer Holiday
• July 14: Max Von Essen and Billy Stritch
• July 21: John Lloyd Young from Jersey Boy
• July 28: Jasmine Amy Rogers
• August 4: Zachary Noah Peyser
• August 11: Anthony Rapp and Adam Pascal

James Marino highlights the free nature of these performances and encourages listeners to take advantage of the lineup, especially emphasizing artists like Jasmine Amy Rogers.

8. Notable Closings: "Boop" and "Old Friends"

Timestamp: [66:04]

The episode touches upon recent closings in the Broadway scene:

• "Boop": Despite hopes that recent closures would boost ticket sales, the production did not significantly benefit and remains closed.
• "Old Friends": Final performances saw positive reviews, with attendees praising the emotional resonance and memorable moments.

Listeners are encouraged to catch any last performances, with James Marino sharing a heartwarming story about a concert experience tied to "Old Friends."

9. Passing of Broadway Legends

Timestamp: [67:32]

The hosts mourn the loss of several prominent figures in the Broadway community:

• Paul Libin: Celebrated for his contributions to Circle in the Square, libin was to receive a lifetime achievement award which was posthumously honored.

  Michael Portantier: Fondly recalls Libin's generosity and support, stating, “He was very, very good to us...” ([68:10]).

• Ronald Ribman: An esteemed playwright known for works like "Harry Noon Night", Ribman's legacy includes influencing iconic productions.

  Michael Portantier: Explains Ribman's connection to the musical "Hair," uncovering a personal anecdote about libretto contributions ([69:20]).

• Richard Greenberg: Tony Award-winning playwright recognized for plays like "Take Me Out" and "Pal Joey" adaptations.

  Michael Portantier: Shares a personal interaction with Greenberg, reflecting on the playwright's passion for baseball and its influence on his work ([71:45]).

  James Marino: Expresses mixed feelings about Greenberg's writing but acknowledges the strengths in his notable plays ([73:18]).

• Mark Brokaw: A revered theater director known for productions like "Reckless" and "The Constant Wife".

  James Marino: Lists Brokaw's impressive directorial portfolio and the lasting impact he made on the theater community ([76:06]).

  Michael Portantier: Highlights Brokaw's supportive directing style and his positive relationships with actors ([81:20]).

10. Brain Teaser and Musical Moments

Timestamp: [83:48]

The episode concludes with a brain teaser and a segment on musical moments:

• Brain Teaser: The hosts pose a challenging question linking 21st-century musicals and plays with interconnected titles.

  Peter Felicia: Encourages listeners to submit their answers via email for a chance to be featured.

• Musical Moments: James Marino shares excerpts from "Don Giovanni – A Rock Opera", providing listeners with a taste of the production's innovative blend of classical opera and modern rock elements.

11. Closing Remarks

Timestamp: [86:36]

James Marino extends gratitude to listeners on behalf of the hosts and reminds them to subscribe to BroadwayRadio through various platforms, including Patreon for exclusive content. The episode wraps up with final thoughts and well-wishes from the hosts.

Notable Quotes:

• Michael Portantier at [03:25]: “There are no stars here. They are stars if they're good at softball.”

• James Marino at [13:08]: “It's so brilliantly written. From a great adaptation of the source material...”

• James Marino at [31:37]: “The singing was really superb from everyone, including Ryan Silverman... I was thrilled by the quality of the singing in this production and the acting as well. So a high, high, high recommendation.”

Upcoming Events and Recommendations:

• "Don Giovanni – A Rock Opera" is running at the Cutting Room until August 26th, with performances typically on Mondays and Tuesdays at 7 PM.

• "Broadway by the Boardwalk" offers free outdoor performances at Hudson River Park, encouraging attendees to bring blankets and enjoy the lineup of talented artists.

For more information on the shows discussed, ticket links, and additional content, listeners are encouraged to visit broadwayradio.com.