Podcast Summary: Today on Broadway – Friday, Feb. 28, 2025
BroadwayRadio delivers an engaging and comprehensive episode of Today on Broadway hosted by Matt Tammini and Grace Hockey. This episode, released on February 28, 2025, covers a spectrum of current Broadway news, from show closures and new productions to industry agreements and successful tours. The discussion is enriched with notable quotes and insightful commentary, making it a valuable resource for Broadway enthusiasts.
1. Sunset Boulevard Revival Announces Closure
The episode opens with disappointing news for Broadway fans as Matt Tammini discusses the upcoming closure of the highly acclaimed revival of Sunset Boulevard. Originally set to close on July 6th, the show will now conclude on July 13th.
Matt Tammini [00:10]: "It’s going to close on July 13th. So they're adding one more week, but they are not going to extend after those nine months that Nicole Scherzinger had already said that she was going to do in the role of Norma Desmond."
Despite the extension, Tammini expresses his disappointment over the decision not to replace Nicole Scherzinger with another actress, emphasizing his hope to see the role of Norma Desmond portrayed by various talents in the future.
Matt Tammini [02:10]: "It's a show that I would love to return to for years and years as more and more people have the opportunity to play this version of Norma Desmond."
Grace Hockey echoes Tammini's sentiments, highlighting Nicole Scherzinger’s stellar performance and encouraging audiences to seize the opportunity to see the show before it ends.
Grace Hockey [02:29]: "You will miss out on what I have described to others as one of the greatest performances I will ever see in my lifetime."
2. Jamie Lloyd’s Expanding Directorial Ventures
The hosts transition to discuss Jamie Lloyd’s influential role in both London and Broadway theaters. With plans to direct Evita in London, Lloyd continues to make significant strides in the theater world.
Matt Tammini [02:57]: "Jamie Lloyd is clearly making a big wave with everything that he is doing on both sides of the Atlantic."
Tammini speculates on the possibility of a revolving production schedule, potentially leading to a seamless transition between Sunset Boulevard and Evita on Broadway, enhancing the dynamic nature of theater productions.
3. Actors Equity and Broadway League Reach New Developmental Agreement
A significant highlight of the episode is the resolution of the eight-month strike involving Actors Equity and the Broadway League. The new developmental agreement, effective through February 11, 2029, marks a pivotal advancement in Broadway’s labor relations.
Matt Tammini [04:15]: "This new agreement raises the pay for equity members by 8% during these developmental periods and increases pre-production time for stage managers."
Grace Hockey discusses the broader implications of this agreement, noting a historic drop in new show developments over the past year and expressing hope that the new contract will rejuvenate the creative pipeline.
Grace Hockey [06:04]: "I have seen a drastic drop off in the last year specifically of new show development... I'm curious to see what more this takes on new shows."
4. Hunger Games Stage Adaptation Premieres in London
The podcast then shifts focus to the exciting announcement of The Hunger Games stage adaptation premiering at the Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre in London on October 20th. Adapted by Connor McPherson and directed by Matthew Dunster, this production brings Suzanne Collins' beloved trilogy to the stage.
Matt Tammini [07:30]: "Katniss Everdeen will be one of those roles that a lot of people will be looking to see who they cast."
The hosts express anticipation for the casting choices and the potential impact of a successful adaptation, hoping it will mirror the success of previous theatrical renditions.
5. A Beautiful Noise Achieves Rapid Financial Success on Tour
Highlighting positive news from the touring scene, Matt Tammini celebrates the national tour of A Beautiful Noise, which has remarkably recouped its $6 million investment within five months of launching in September.
Grace Hockey [09:49]: "Five months is unfathomable... kudos to all of it."
Grace underscores the rarity of such financial success in the industry, acknowledging the show's popularity and the effective touring model that differs significantly from Broadway’s subscription-based approach.
6. Broadway Cares Equity Fights AIDS Broadway Backwards Concert Lineup Expanded
The episode also covers the upcoming Broadway Carers, Equity Fights AIDS Broadway Backwards concert, now featuring an expanded roster of stars. This annual event, benefiting both Broadway Cares and the LGBTQ+ Community Center, will take place on March 10th at the Gershwin Theater.
Matt Tammini [11:20]: "Jen Colella will return for the fifth year to host this incredibly fun concert."
New additions to the lineup include Bobby Conti, Lorna Courtney, Nikki Renee Daniels, and several other notable performers, promising an unforgettable evening of performances.
7. Hadestown’s Orpheus Update Featuring Carlos Valdez
Concluding the episode, Matt Tammini introduces a new video released by Hadestown, featuring Carlos Valdez as Orpheus. Valdez, known for his powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence, offers a fresh interpretation of the character.
Matt Tammini [11:50]: "He's a little bit more powerful than a lot of other Orpheuses that I've seen, but it's a really cool sound."
Listeners are encouraged to watch the video through the show notes to experience Valdez’s rendition firsthand.
Closing Remarks
Matt Tammini wraps up the episode by thanking listeners and promoting the podcast's social media channels for further updates and interactions. Grace Hockey provides her contact information, inviting listeners to connect and engage with the hosts.
Matt Tammini [12:42]: "Have a wonderful Friday, a wonderful weekend, and we'll be back to talk to you on Monday."
Today on Broadway by BroadwayRadio offers a thorough and insightful look into the latest happenings on Broadway, making it an essential listen for theater aficionados seeking to stay informed and engaged with the Broadway community.