BroadwayRadio Episode Summary: Today on Broadway: Friday, April 25, 2025
On the April 25, 2025 episode of BroadwayRadio's Today on Broadway, hosts Matt Timminini, Grace Aki, and Christian Lewis delve into the latest developments on Broadway, with a primary focus on the newly opened musical Pirates! The Penzance Musical. The episode is structured into several key segments, each highlighting significant news, reviews, and discussions relevant to Broadway enthusiasts.
1. Pirates! The Penzance Musical Review Recap
Opening Overview
Matt Timminini kicks off the episode by introducing the revamped Broadway production of Pirates! The Penzance Musical, which premiered at the Todd Haynes Theater under the aegis of the Roundabout Theatre Company. Scheduled to run until July 27th, the production marks a fresh take on the classic Gilbert and Sullivan operetta, transporting the setting from Great Britain to the vibrant backdrop of post-reconstruction New Orleans.
Critical Reception
As of the recording, Pirates! The Penzance Musical has garnered 14 reviews, with 11 being positive, two mixed, and one negative. Notably, David Hyde Pierce’s performance as Major General Stanley has been a standout, receiving unanimous praise across reviews.
- Jesse Green, New York Times [02:00]:
“Except for the central performance by David Hyde Pierce marvelously underplaying the tongue twisting Major General, the production has a sweaty quality bordering on frenzy that's hopelessly at odds with the cool wit of the original.”
Despite the majority positive reception, Green underscores some mismatches between the original tone and the new adaptation, ultimately acknowledging the show as “a feather in the tricorn of the Roundabout Theatre Company.”
- Adam Feldman, Time Out New York [04:16]:
“The modern world is full of stress, so go and have a party bra and shake it like a necklace made of gaudy beads at Mardi Gras and enjoy this Broadway hybrid that is tuneful and poetical, a most delightful model of a modern operaticle. Bravo.”
Matt highlights Feldman’s unique poetic review, which encapsulates the show’s lively spirit.
- Christian Lewis:
“One of the things that is universally mentioned throughout all of the reviews is just how wonderful David Hyde Pierce is.” [05:30]
Greg Evans of Deadline also commends Pierce, predicting a strong possibility for a Tony nomination.
Tony Implications for David Hyde Pierce
The hosts discuss the potential Tony nomination for David Hyde Pierce, debating whether he will compete in the Best Actor in a Musical or Best Featured Actor in a Musical category. Christian suggests:
- Christian Lewis:
“David Hyde Pierce is going to be a lock for a nomination and depending on which category he's in, very well could be the front runner for a Tony.” [06:00]
2. Tony Awards Honorary Recognition
A significant segment covers the announcement of Harvey Fierstein receiving a special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theater. The hosts express admiration for Fierstein’s extensive contributions, noting his four Tony wins and numerous nominations across various categories, including Torch Song Trilogy and Hairspray.
- Grace Aki:
“I think this is long overdue, especially because he has excelled in nearly every aspect of creating theater, as both a writer of plays, a writer of musicals, and as an actor in both plays and musicals as well.” [09:00]
Christian echoes this sentiment, emphasizing Fierstein's impact on queer art and theater.
3. Upcoming Productions and Casting News
a. Paddington the Musical in London
The episode reveals that Paddington the Musical will premiere at London’s Savoy Theatre on November 1. Directed by Luke Shepard, with music and lyrics by Tom Fletcher of McFly, and choreography by Ellen Kane, the production anticipates strong audience turnout given the beloved status of the Paddington films.
- Grace Aki:
“I have a little bit of a confession to make. I have not watched any of the Paddington movies, and I know that that is sacrilegious to a lot of people, but I know they're beloved.” [11:00]
b. Waiting for Godot on Broadway
Casting news for Jamie Lloyd’s upcoming Broadway production of Waiting for Godot includes Michael Patrick Thornton as Lucky. Thornton, a wheelchair user and co-founder of Chicago's Gift Theater, brings a fresh portrayal to the character, adding depth to the ensemble alongside Keanu Reeves and Alex Winters.
- Christian Lewis:
“I loved his performance in A Doll's House. I thought he was exceptional.” [13:10]
c. Busada by Gloria and Emily Estefan
The hosts announce the world premiere of Busada at Atlanta’s Alliance Theater, set for performances starting May 30 through July 12. Written by Gloria and Emily Estefan with a book by Karen Zakarias and directed by Michael Greif, the musical narrates the inspiring story of Paraguay’s Recycled Orchestra.
d. Frozen at Muny Theater
John Tartaglia's rendition of Frozen at the Muny Theater features original cast members Patty Murin as Anna and Hannah Corneo as Elsa, among others. Scheduled from July 6th to 14th, the production promises to deliver a magical experience to its large audience.
e. Chloe Zhao’s Hamnet Film Adaptation
The hosts touch upon the upcoming film adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s novel Hamnet, directed by Chloe Zhao, premiering in limited release on November 27 and nationwide on December 12. Starring Paul Mescal and Jesse Buckley, the film is highly anticipated for the awards season.
4. Technical Issues and Memorable Onstage Moments
Matt discusses recent technical issues faced by Broadway productions, specifically Happy Ending and Sunset Boulevard. Both faced cancellations due to technical difficulties, leading to Nicole Scherzinger stepping in to address the audiences directly.
- Grace Aki:
“It could only happen in theater moments, Grace, that they're probably going to remember for a long time.” [18:00]
Christian reflects on the resilience and human aspect showcased by performers during unforeseen disruptions.
5. Actors on Actors Series from Variety
The episode highlights the latest installment of Variety’s Actors on Actors series, featuring conversations between Sarah Snook and Kieran Culkin, as well as Patti LuPone and George Clooney. Topics include the impact of technology on theater, with notable discussions on audience cell phone usage.
- Christian Lewis:
“It's just so funny that multiple people have brought up technology in the audience, which means that it's really systemic.” [20:00]
6. KitKat Club’s New Stars of Cabaret
Grace shares insights from her visit to the KitKat Club, where the new Cabaret stars Orville Peck and Eva Obalzada delivered standout performances.
- Christian Lewis:
“Eva's got this in her bones. I think that she's... has very clearly always wanted to play this role and it's very evident.” [21:00]
The hosts commend their performances, noting potential Tony Award-winning talents should they originate the roles.
7. Recommendations
While not detailed extensively in the transcript, the hosts suggest checking out video moments of live performances and the Actors on Actors series for additional Broadway insights.
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with warm wishes to listeners and prompts to follow BroadwayRadio on social media for more updates. For Patreon subscribers, additional reviews and content are available, ensuring dedicated listeners receive comprehensive coverage of Broadway’s dynamic landscape.
This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the Today on Broadway episode, providing a thorough overview of the discussions, insights, and notable quotes that highlight the vibrant happenings in the Broadway community as of April 25, 2025.