BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary Episode: ToB: Monday, May 19, 2025 | Clint Ramos on ‘Maybe Happy Ending,’ Lincoln Center, ‘Into the Woods’ in Manila

Introduction

In this episode of BroadwayRadio, host Matt Tamnini delves into the latest Broadway news and engages in an insightful conversation with Tony nominee Clint Ramos. The episode blends recent industry updates with an in-depth interview, offering listeners a comprehensive look into both current happenings and behind-the-scenes perspectives from one of Broadway's esteemed artists.

News Highlights

Drama League Awards Announced

The episode kicks off with a detailed overview of the Drama League Awards revealed on Friday. These awards are distinctive for their expansive nomination categories, particularly in performances, where 50 nominees contend for each award, though each individual can only win once.

• Outstanding Production of a Play: Oh Mary takes the win.
• Outstanding Revival of a Play: A historic first-time tie awards both Eureka Day (Broadway) and Vanya (Off-Broadway).
• Outstanding Production of a Musical: Maybe Happy Ending emerges victorious.
• Outstanding Revival of a Musical: Sunset Boulevard clinches the award.
• Outstanding Direction:
  • Oh Mary: Sam Pinkleton
  • Maybe Happy Ending: Michael Arden

In the Distinguished Performance category, despite a competitive field featuring luminaries like Nicole Scherzinger, who won for Sunset Boulevard ([Timestamp: 05:30]), the results hint at potential trends for the upcoming Tony Awards.

Milestone for Aladdin on Broadway

Celebrating its 4,000th performance, Aladdin marked the occasion coinciding with Howard Ashman's birthday. The celebration featured special appearances from the Little Shop of Horrors Off-Broadway cast, original voice of Ariel Jodi Benson, and composer Alan Menken. Teasers released over the weekend will now be available in full, providing fans with exclusive behind-the-scenes moments ([Timestamp: 04:30]).

Interview with Clint Ramos

Clint Ramos, a Tony Award-winning designer, discusses his multifaceted role in the Broadway scene, his contributions to Maybe Happy Ending, his work with Lincoln Center, and upcoming international projects.

Tony Nomination and Maybe Happy Ending

Clint expresses gratitude for his seventh Tony nomination for Maybe Happy Ending ([Timestamp: 07:03]). He emphasizes the show's cohesive design process, highlighting the seamless integration of various creative disciplines:

“Maybe Happy Ending is such a special gem... it feels like we're finishing each other's sentences.” ([07:10])

Collaborative Design Process

Clint sheds light on the collaborative environment that made every member of the creative team for Maybe Happy Ending a nominee:

“It begins with the permission to not stay in our lanes... absolute openness to hear each other out.” ([08:56])

He details the dynamic interplay between costume and scenery design, ensuring that each element enhances the storytelling and emotional resonance on stage.

Costume Design Insights

A discussion on the meticulous attention to detail in costume design reveals Clint's approach to color and functionality:

“Oliver's pants are a version of turquoise or aqua... I wanted it to always appear like some sort of constructed fabric that doesn't age.” ([11:16])

Clint explains how color choice facilitates character tracking and contributes to the overall visual narrative.

Lincoln Center’s Summer in the City Series

Transitioning to his role as the Visual Director and Artist in Residence at Lincoln Center, Clint describes the Summer in the City festival—a vibrant summer event featuring over 200-300 programs across various genres:

“We transform the plaza into a big dance floor with a giant mirror ball... creating a festive and inviting atmosphere.” ([13:28])

He emphasizes the festival's inclusivity and its role in fostering community through diverse programming.

Artist in Residence Initiatives

Clint elaborates on initiatives like the Create-a-Thon and Springboard to Design, aimed at nurturing young designers and promoting creativity as a fundamental life skill:

“Creativity as a way of living and a way of thinking... Springboard to Design is a one-week intensive of master classes for high school students.” ([18:49])

These programs are designed to inspire the next generation of theater designers and provide them with tangible pathways into the industry.

Designing for Opera vs. Theater

Addressing the nuances of designing for opera, Clint discusses the unique challenges compared to Broadway musicals:

“Opera singers are not mic'd... I have to ensure costumes are comfortable and do not impede their performances.” ([24:46])

He highlights the importance of collaboration and adaptability in meeting the specific needs of opera productions.

Upcoming Production: Into the Woods in Manila

Clint shares his excitement about directing a summer production of Into the Woods in Manila with notable talents like Lea Salonga as the Witch and Ariel Jacobs as Cinderella:

“This is a dream come true... Bringing global diaspora together to create world-class theater in Manila.” ([28:03])

He underscores the cultural significance and the collaborative spirit driving this international endeavor.

Quintessential Moment in Maybe Happy Ending

Concluding the interview, Clint reflects on the pivotal moments that encapsulate the essence of Maybe Happy Ending:

“What the musical is about, really, is the desperate need to connect... two robots showing us how to be human through connection.” ([31:35] - [33:11])

These themes of connection and humanity are central to the show's narrative and emotional impact.

Conclusion

Matt thanks Clint Ramos for his time and insights, highlighting Clint's multifaceted contributions to Broadway, Lincoln Center, and international theater. The episode wraps up with anticipation for Clint's upcoming projects and Into the Woods in Manila, promising listeners exciting developments in the world of theater.

Notable Quotes:

• “Maybe Happy Ending is such a special gem... it feels like we're finishing each other's sentences.” – Clint Ramos ([07:10])
• “Creativity as a way of living and a way of thinking...” – Clint Ramos ([18:49])
• “What the musical is about, really, is the desperate need to connect...” – Clint Ramos ([31:35])

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