BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary: "This Week on Broadway for March 30, 2025: Buena Vista Social Club"

Release Date: March 30, 2025

1. Episode Overview

In this episode of BroadwayRadio, hosts James Marino, Peter Felicia, and Michael Portantier delve into the latest Broadway productions, reviews, and happenings. The discussion spans from new theatrical renditions to high school theater excellence, providing listeners with a comprehensive look at the vibrant world of Broadway.

2. New Releases and Projects

Peter Felicia introduces his latest endeavor, the "Day by Day Desk Calendar: A Show Tune for Today — 366 Songs to Brighten Your Year". This evergreen calendar offers daily show tunes without the constraint of specific weekdays, allowing flexibility for purchase at any time. (02:14)

3. Revisiting Classic Plays

Peter shares insights into his innovative rendition of "The Merchant of Venice", titled "Shylock, the Antonio". In this version, Shylock is reimagined not as the antagonist but as a more sympathetic character. The production features a stellar cast, including Chip Sign as Shylock and Julie Banko from Funny Girl fame as Portia. (04:18)

Peter Felicia comments:

"I've written a new version where Shylock is not the bad guy or the fall guy... It's just a reading with music stands, but I think it's going to be good." (04:18)

4. Cast Album Discussions: "Kiss Me Kate"

The hosts engage in a nostalgic conversation about various cast recordings of "Kiss Me Kate". James Marino expresses his preference for the original recording, praising the palpable theatrical energy and iconic performances by Patricia Morrison, Harold Lange, Alfred Drake, and Lisa Kirk. (08:14 - 11:04)

James Marino reflects:

"There is really something about that recording that the energy of it is palpable... I hope this show doesn't get lost in the shuffle of all the stuff that's opening on Broadway right now." (09:07)

5. Reviews of Current Productions

Buena Vista Social Club

The trio reviews "Buena Vista Social Club" performed at the Schoenfeld Theater. James Marino lauds the musical for its infectious music and authentic portrayal of the Cuban ensemble's legacy, highlighting performances by Natalie Venecia Balcone and Issa Antonetti.

James Marino shares:

"It's one of the most entertaining shows ever. The music is so infectious and so wonderful that even if you have no background, you can't imagine anyone not liking it." (13:28)

Othello at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre

Peter Felicia provides a critique of the production featuring Andrew Burnap as Cassio, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Denzel Washington. While praising the strong performances, he notes audience reactions that included inappropriate laughter during tragic moments, attributing it possibly to unfamiliarity with the play's language.

Peter Felicia states:

"We have no answer to why some audience members found it a laugh riot... If you go, be prepared for that." (28:39 - 30:04)

Purpose by Brandon Jacobs Jenkins

The discussion shifts to "Purpose", a play exploring familial conflicts within a prominent civil rights family. James Marino critiques the second act for feeling overstuffed but commends the passionate performances and direction by Phylicia Rashad.

James Marino comments:

"Act 1 was almost perfect and significantly comedic, but Act 2 felt overstuffed and didn't completely lose its entertainment value." (37:52 - 41:06)

Peter Felicia adds:

"I found it very powerful, especially the dynamics of family and societal pressures depicted." (37:55 - 41:06)

Love Life at Encores City Center

Peter Felicia reviews the revival of "Love Life", a 1948 musical rarely performed due to a lack of original cast recordings. The production showcases Brian Stokes Mitchell and Kate Baldwin, emphasizing the show's ambition despite its artificial set and evolving musical landscape.

Peter Felicia remarks:

""Love Life" is a very complicated show with moments that are both entertaining and challenging, reflecting the suburban life's pressures and complexities." (41:24 - 50:52)

Vanya: One-Person Show

A standout review of "Vanya", a one-person rendition by Andrew Scott at the Schubert Theatre, highlights his transformative performance and the challenges of condensing Chekhov's classic into a solo act. Peter Felicia suggests that while Scott's portrayal is impressive, those unfamiliar with "Uncle Vanya" might find the production confusing.

Peter Felicia shares:

"If you don't know Uncle Vanya, you might be terribly confused. But Andrew Scott's performance is a tour de force." (51:22 - 53:09)

6. Spotlight on Community Theater

The hosts celebrate the 11th Anniversary of the High School Theater Festival for New York City Public Schools at the Shubert Theatre. Peter Felicia praises the exceptional talent of high school performers, highlighting standout roles in productions like "The Heights", "Skin of Our Teeth", "Chorus Line", and "Sweeney Todd".

Peter Felicia enthuses:

"There are so many talented people who opt for the paycheck on Fridays but show incredible discipline and talent in high school theater." (65:36 - 70:04)

7. Podcast Recommendations and Tributes

James Marino recommends the podcast "Inside the Art House" by Raphael Sparge, focusing on art house theaters and their impact on the community. Additionally, the hosts pay tribute to the late Richard Chamberlain, celebrating his illustrious career in theater, television, and film.

8. Trivia and Musical Moments

The episode concludes with a trivia question challenging listeners to identify a two-word phrase from a 1970s Tony-winning musical that also inspired the name of another musical written by two brothers. Answers are encouraged to be sent via email.

In the Musical Moments segment, the hosts honor Jonathan Grof on his 40th birthday and preview his upcoming Broadway show, "Just in Time", with excerpts from Bobby Darin's classics "Beyond the Sea" and "Dream Lover".

James Marino reflects:

"I hope this show doesn't get lost in the shuffle... It's a wonderful tribute and something that audiences will love." (77:00 - 79:09)

Notable Quotes

• James Marino (13:28):
  "It's one of the most entertaining shows ever. The music is so infectious and so wonderful that even if you have no background, you can't imagine anyone not liking it."

• Peter Felicia (28:39):
  "We have no answer to why some audience members found it a laugh riot... If you go, be prepared for that."

• James Marino (37:52):
  "Act 1 was almost perfect and significantly comedic, but Act 2 felt overstuffed and didn't completely lose its entertainment value."

Conclusion

This episode of BroadwayRadio offers an in-depth exploration of current Broadway productions, blending professional reviews with personal insights from seasoned theater enthusiasts. From reimagined classics to burgeoning community talent, listeners gain a multifaceted perspective on the ever-evolving landscape of Broadway.

For more information, subscribe to BroadwayRadio here and follow their discussions on Apple Podcasts, Patreon, and other platforms.