BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary: "Today on Broadway: Friday, Dec. 20, 2024"

Release Date: December 20, 2024

1. Opening of "Gypsy" at the Majestic Theater

The episode kicks off with Matt Tammanini and Grace Hockey discussing the much-anticipated Broadway revival of "Gypsy", which premiered the previous night at the Majestic Theater. Matt mentions the strategic decision to embargo reviews until midnight to focus on the gala and red carpet events, ensuring that critics could review the show without external distractions.

• Matt (00:09): "Grace, as we had talked about previously, Gypsy opened last night at the Majestic Theater on Broadway... you can listen for a review recap episode that'll pop up both on Patreon and in the regular feed sometime on Friday if you want to hear all of those reviews."

Grace highlights the star-studded cast, including Audra McDonald and Danny Burstein, and anticipates a wealth of red carpet content to keep fans engaged until the official reviews are released.

2. "Hadestown" London Run and Ticket Sales

The hosts shift focus to "Hadestown", revealing that the original principal cast is set to perform in London for a month during February and March. Due to overwhelming demand, pre-sale tickets through the UK Productions website sold out rapidly, leading to the cancellation of the general sale.

• Matt (01:30): "I got up at 6:45... and I now have three tickets to see that cast in London in February. They're going to be a Christmas present for my niece and brother and we're going to fly over to London for a weekend to see that show."

Grace praises the swift ticket sales and expresses excitement about witnessing the acclaimed cast, including Amber Gray, Patrick Page, and Reeve Carney, once more.

• Grace (02:23): "How exciting is it? I just love that you're going... it's such a short run that I have a feeling that it's, I mean, was it sold out already? Obviously like that. It's just amazing."

They also compare the affordability of London tickets to Broadway, noting that London offers seats at a more accessible price point.

• Matt (02:44): "Those tickets on Broadway would be much, much more expensive. So loving this, looking forward to sitting in the stalls rather than the orchestra, but excited about the entire experience nonetheless."

3. Upcoming Broadway Production: "Dead Outlaw"

In significant news, "Dead Outlaw" is confirmed to arrive on Broadway this season, commencing performances at the Longacre Theater on April 12, with an official opening night on April 27. Directed by the renowned David Cromer, the show features a book by Itamar Moses and music and lyrics by Eric Dellapena and David Yazbeck.

• Matt (04:44): "Yesterday it was confirmed that Dead Outlaw is coming to Broadway this season and it will begin performances at the Longacre Theater on April 12 ahead of an April 27 opening night, as he did Off Broadway."

Grace underscores the competitive landscape for Best Musical races this season, highlighting David Yazbek's dual contributions to both "Dead Outlaw" and "Buena Vista Social Club."

• Grace (04:44): "I think this one also has to move. I mean, you can debate if it's the front runner, but it is certainly amongst the front runners for best musical this season."

4. Spring Theater Availability and "Oklahoma! Mary" Casting Updates

The conversation turns to the Broadway spring schedule, noting that all theaters are currently booked, leaving little room for new openings unless unforeseen closures occur. Matt expresses uncertainty about potential closures, citing ongoing successful runs like "Happy Ending" and the updated cast announcements for "Hadestown" and "Six."

• Matt (05:40): "I mean, who knows?... I would imagine that our season is set, but never say never."

Grace adds that "Redwood" at the Nederlander Theater is scheduled to begin in late January but remains optimistic about its success despite uncertainties.

The hosts then discuss the casting changes in "Oklahoma! Mary":

• Matt (07:30): "Betty Gilpin would be replacing Cole Escola as Mary in the show beginning on January 21st... Taking over as Mary's husband will be Philip James Brannon... Chris Renfro will be succeeding James Scully."

Grace emphasizes the importance of the new cast understanding the show's tone over merely having big names.

• Grace (08:54): "I would rather someone get that style of comedy and be... somebody who understands that kind of beat humor at all."

5. "Suffs" to Be Filmed for PBS's Great Performances

Matt shares the uplifting news that "Suffs", currently running on Broadway, will be filmed for a future airing on PBS's Great Performances after its closing on January 5. This preservation ensures the show's legacy endures beyond its theatrical run.

• Matt (09:43): "Having it filmed and not just filmed and like being thrown on a streaming service, but to have it be part of PBS is massively important..."

Grace concurs, highlighting the cultural and artistic significance of archiving such performances.

• Grace (11:18): "I think it's great... it should be a piece that's preserved."

6. Casting Update on "Three Summers of Lincoln"

In a disappointing turn, Matt announces that Brian Stokes Mitchell will not be part of the world premiere of the new musical "Three Summers of Lincoln" at the La Jolla Playhouse. Instead, Ivan Hernandez steps in to take on the role.

• Matt (12:03): "He [Stokes] said, 'it is with great regret that due to a personal matter I will be unable to join...'"

Despite the casting change, the production boasts a talented ensemble including Eric Anderson, Carmen Cusack, Quentin Earl Darrington, and others, all contributing to the show's promising debut.

7. New Play Announcement: "English" by Liena Sanclar

The hosts reveal that Liena Sanclar's new play, "English", will have its world premiere off-Broadway at the Duke on 42nd Street in March 2025. Directed by Obie Award winner Knud Adams, the play centers on Allison Bennett, a high school track star facing personal dilemmas as she reconnects with her past.

• Matt (14:02): "It follows Allison Bennett, a high school track star who's forced to confront some old feelings and life-changing decisions..."

8. Grace's Recommendation: "Gypsy" Highlights

As a feel-good segment, Grace promotes a snippet from "Gypsy", spotlighting performances by Audra McDonald, Danny Burstein, and other talented cast members. She praises the musical's enduring legacy and anticipates its continued acclaim.

• Grace (14:02): "There's a reason that this show is considered one of the greatest written pieces in musical theater history and one of the perfect musicals."

Closing Remarks

Matt and Grace conclude the episode by expressing gratitude to their listeners and hinting at upcoming holiday-themed episodes. Grace shares her appreciation for audience feedback, emphasizing the personal connection with their audience.

• Grace (15:23): "I'm just so grateful... it's my favorite part of the day and I just love that this is hopefully one of your favorite parts of the day as well."

Matt echoes these sentiments, wishing listeners a wonderful holiday season and hinting at future content.

Notable Quotes:

• Matt (00:09): "You can listen for a review recap episode that'll pop up both on Patreon and in the regular feed sometime on Friday if you want to hear all of those reviews."

• Grace (02:23): "I just love that you're going and I love that, you know, it's become this very like, oh my God, who all is going to get to be able to see this?"

• Grace (08:54): "I would rather someone get that style of comedy and be... somebody who understands that kind of beat humor at all."

• Grace (11:18): "I think it's great... it should be a piece that's preserved."

This episode of BroadwayRadio's "Today on Broadway" offers comprehensive insights into current Broadway happenings, upcoming productions, casting updates, and heartfelt recommendations, making it an invaluable resource for theater enthusiasts.