BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary
Episode: Today on Broadway: Friday, Aug. 1, 2025
Release Date: August 1, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of BroadwayRadio's Today on Broadway, hosts Matt Tamminini and Grace dive deep into the latest happenings in the Broadway scene. From casting controversies to exciting new productions, the duo provides insightful commentary and engaging discussions for theater enthusiasts. Notably, they also tease upcoming exclusive content available on Patreon.

Main Controversy: Casting in "Maybe Happy Ending"

Overview of the Controversy

The episode opens with a significant discussion surrounding the Tony Award-winning musical Maybe Happy Ending, specifically focusing on the recent casting decision involving Andrew Barth Feldman stepping into the role of Oliver. The controversy stems from concerns over representation, as the show is set in Korea and the original actor, Darren Criss, is of Asian American descent. Andrew Barth Feldman, a white actor, replacing him has sparked debates about the advancement of AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) representation on Broadway.

Creators' Statement

Matt highlights the response from the show's writers, Will Aronson and Hugh Park, who issued a comprehensive statement addressing the backlash. He reads portions of their statement, emphasizing their original vision and the complexities involved in casting decisions:

"Our dream at the outset was that our allegorical robot show could one day miraculously become part of the American musical theater canon... [00:04:15]"

The creators explain their intent to craft universal characters and the challenges they faced in maintaining cultural authenticity without confining the show to a purely Korean identity.

Discussion Between Hosts

Grace provides a nuanced perspective on the situation, acknowledging the impact on the AAPI community and the broader implications for representation in theater:

"...the makeup of our opening night cast became a meaningful and rare point of visibility. We've heard how strongly people connected to that representation... [00:05:40]"

She underscores the systemic issues facing Asian male actors in Broadway, noting that romantic leads remain scarce opportunities.

Matt reflects on the creators' intentions versus the audience's reception, pointing out:

"Once you turn it out into the world, it becomes the audience's show... [00:06:10]"

He also references a statement from Chris Tamayo, a standby in the show, who emphasizes the need to address larger systemic issues rather than vilify individual decisions:

"...the vilification that has dominated these conversations has to be redirected at the larger systemic issues... [00:07:15]"

Conclusion on the Controversy

Both hosts agree that while the creators' intentions may be sincere, the impact on the community cannot be overlooked. They anticipate ongoing discussions and potential future casting decisions that will continue to shape the narrative around representation in theater.

News and Updates

1. New Broadway Addition: "Liberation"

Matt shares exciting news about the acclaimed Off Broadway show Liberation moving to Broadway's James Earl Jones Theater with performances starting on October 8th. Directed by Whitney White and featuring much of the original cast, the show explores women's liberation in 1970s Ohio through a time-bending narrative.

Grace, who worked on the Off Broadway production, expresses her enthusiasm for the Broadway transfer:

"I'm really excited that we're going to continue. I get to work on it for the Broadway transfer... [00:12:45]"

2. London Production Update: "Gatsby Colon, An American Myth"

The hosts discuss Gatsby Colon, An American Myth, a reimagined version of The Great Gatsby, which is set to continue its journey with a new reading directed by Tony Award winner David Cromer. Originally staged at the American Repertory Theater, it's anticipated to make its way to London's West End before potentially transferring to Broadway. Notably, Grammy nominee Thomas Bartlett is no longer part of the production.

3. "Jesus Christ Superstar" Hollywood Bowl Update

Disappointing news for fans in California as Josh Gad withdraws from the Hollywood Bowl's production of Jesus Christ Superstar due to a COVID diagnosis. The show, which features stars like Cynthia Rivo and Adam Lambert, is set to premiere tonight. Grace and Matt discuss the implications of his absence and speculate on potential replacements.

4. New Play Announcement: "And Then We Were No More"

Exclusive news from Deadline reveals that And Then We Were No More, written by actor and author Tim Blake Nelson, will debut at La Mama Off Broadway on September 19th. Starring Elizabeth Marvel, the play delves into themes of justice and mercy in a dystopian future where a new execution machine exists.

5. Return of "Exorcistic" Off Broadway Musical

Exorcistic, a parody rock musical based on The Exorcist, is set to return Off Broadway on August 25th. Starring Emma Hunton and featuring a rotating cast of guest stars, including Lena Hall and Evan Rachel Wood, the show promises a blend of horror and comedy that satirizes its source material.

6. New Musical Reading: "Prodigal Daughters"

A reading for the new musical Prodigal Daughters will take place at the Sheen Center, featuring contributions from Broadway performer Elizabeth A. Davis and country music star Lauren Daigle. Directed by Jason Daniely, the musical combines country, Cajun, and pop elements to explore themes of loss and renewal in the American South.

Personal Notes

Grace shares her excitement about attending SummerSlam at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, highlighting her enthusiasm for the event's matches, particularly the Jade Cargill vs. Tiffy Time showdown and the high-energy six-pack tables, ladders, and chairs match featuring stars like Dom Mysterio and Alexa Bliss.

Conclusion

Matt wraps up the episode by reminding listeners of the upcoming Patreon-exclusive episode and encourages them to follow BroadwayRadio on social media for more updates. Grace briefly promotes her social media presence, hinting at more wrestling content for her followers.

"...remember, no today on Broadway on Monday, but there will be a Patreon exclusive episode on Sunday night... [00:23:30]"

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Matt Tamminini [00:04:15]:
  "Our dream at the outset was that our allegorical robot show could one day miraculously become part of the American musical theater canon."

• Grace [00:05:40]:
  "...the makeup of our opening night cast became a meaningful and rare point of visibility."

• Chris Tamayo [00:07:15]:
  "The vilification that has dominated these conversations has to be redirected at the larger systemic issues..."

• Grace [00:12:45]:
  "I'm really excited that we're going to continue. I get to work on it for the Broadway transfer..."

• Matt Tamminini [00:23:30]:
  "...remember, no today on Broadway on Monday, but there will be a Patreon exclusive episode on Sunday night..."

This episode of BroadwayRadio offers a comprehensive look into current Broadway dynamics, balancing critical discussions with uplifting news about new and returning productions. Hosts Matt and Grace provide valuable insights, making it a must-listen for theater aficionados seeking both depth and breadth in their Broadway updates.