BroadwayRadio Episode Summary: "This Week on Broadway for May 11, 2025: Five Models in Ruins, 1981"
Release Date: May 11, 2025
In this engaging episode of BroadwayRadio, hosts James Marino, Jenna, Tessa Fox, Michael Portantier, and Jan Simpson delve into a diverse array of topics shaping the Broadway landscape. From reviews of current productions to discussions on industry challenges, the episode offers listeners a comprehensive overview of the week's happenings in the theater world.
1. Welcome and Introduction
James Marino opens the show by extending greetings to listeners and introducing the panelists: Jenna, Tessa Fox, Michael Portantier, and Jan Simpson. Special mention is made of Peter, a playwright and historian, who is currently in London and absent from this episode due to a canceled flight.
Notable Quote:
James Marino [05:17]: "Manny doesn't do many interviews. How did you land that?"
2. Upcoming Events and Interviews
Jenna shares exciting news about an upcoming event featuring Sandy Duncan at the Laurie Beachman Theater at the West Bank Cafe. The evening promises a live interview, performance clips, and a Q&A session. Tickets are nearly sold out, with options for in-person attendance or live streaming.
Notable Quote:
Jenna [06:30]: "We're almost sold out for our evening with Sandy Duncan... It’ll be interesting to see her reaction when that shows up on the screen." [06:30]
Michael adds logistical details about accessing tickets and reminds listeners to check the show notes for links and additional content.
3. Review of "Five Models in Ruins, 1981"
Jan Simpson provides a detailed review of "Five Models in Ruins," a production by LCT3 at the Claire Tao Theater, part of Lincoln Center Theater's 40th anniversary season. The play, written by Caitlin Saylor Stevens, is set in 1981 and centers around a fashion shoot in an old English manor house. The production features Elizabeth Marvel as the photographer, whose performance is highlighted as a standout element of the show.
Notable Quotes:
Jan Simpson [08:17]: "The playwright has created these characters, but she doesn't really know what to do with them from then on." [08:17]
Jan Simpson [11:22]: "Elizabeth Marvel just...she's always great. She's just Elizabeth Marvel." [11:22]
Jenna and Michael discuss the production's schedule and share anecdotes about navigating the theater space, including the use of elevators and the absence of traditional stair access.
4. Governor's Island's "Death of Rasputin"
Transitioning to another immersive theater experience, Jenna reviews "Death of Rasputin" by Artemis is Burning on Governor's Island. This production blends immersive storytelling with traditional theatrical elements, featuring significant dialogue unlike the dialogue-minimized "Sleep No More." The show allows audiences to choose which characters to follow, enhancing the interactive experience.
Notable Quotes:
Jenna [22:25]: "If you liked Sleep No More...this is something you would enjoy." [22:25]
Jan Simpson [23:57]: "No, that is another big difference. There's no masks." [23:57]
5. Tony Awards and Pulitzer Discussions
The conversation shifts to recent accolades in the theater community. Jan announces that the 2025 Pulitzer for Drama has been awarded to Brandon Jacobs Jenkins for his play "Purpose." The hosts celebrate the achievement, noting Jenkins' consistent contribution to compelling theater and his collaboration with Pulitzer-winning peers like Annie Baker.
Notable Quotes:
Jan Simpson [44:21]: "We had two Pulitzer winners on Broadway this season... it was a strong season for plays on Broadway." [44:21]
Jenna [45:20]: "I think it's so wonderful when a show that's currently running on Broadway or off Broadway gets the Pulitzer." [45:20]
6. Challenges Facing the Theater Community
A significant portion of the discussion addresses ongoing challenges within the theater industry, particularly focusing on the Kennedy Center's deteriorating reputation and funding issues. The panelists express concern over governmental interference and funding cuts affecting arts organizations.
Notable Quotes:
Jenna [54:02]: "It really is just so, so bad. And they don't even seem to be ashamed about the blacklisting aspect of it." [54:02]
Jan Simpson [55:14]: "The theater world will continue to perform as it always has, as a place where freedom of speech, creative independence can exist." [55:14]
The hosts critique recent actions that resemble blacklisting, drawing parallels to historical precedents and emphasizing the resilience of the theater community in maintaining artistic integrity.
7. Industry Blacklisting and Performances
The episode touches on the controversial cancellation of a "Les Misérables" concert performance at the Library of Congress following political tensions. Tessa Fox and Jan Simpson defend the performers' right to choose their audience, highlighting the importance of artistic autonomy.
Notable Quotes:
Tessa Fox [49:41]: "I have a lot of admiration for the people who are refusing to go on... it's their right to not perform." [49:41]
Jan Simpson [50:21]: "That's just a blatant attempt to create a new blacklist. Yeah, and we went through that in the '50s." [50:21]
8. Brain Teaser and Musical Moments
As the episode nears its conclusion, James Marino presents a brain teaser to engage listeners and previews the segment "Musical Moments." Jenna discusses the final performances of "Wonderful Town" at Encores, comparing different renditions of the song "It's Love." The show features performances by Javier Munoz and J. Aubrey Jones, offering listeners a taste of the musical interpretations.
Notable Quotes:
Jenna [59:40]: "The opener is Javier Munoz singing part of 'It's Love' from Wonderful Town and the closer is the same song being performed by J. Aubrey Jones." [59:40]
Conclusion
This week's episode of BroadwayRadio provides a thorough exploration of current Broadway productions, industry accolades, and the pressing challenges faced by the theater community. With insightful reviews, thoughtful discussions, and engaging segments, the hosts deliver a rich and informative experience for Broadway enthusiasts.
Final Notable Quote:
James Marino [62:57]: "It's love at last. I've learned what we're here for...It's love." [62:57]
For more details, interviews, and updates, listeners are encouraged to visit the show notes at broadwayradio.com and engage with the hosts through their various platforms.