BroadwayRadio Episode Summary: Today on Broadway – Friday, February 7, 2025
Release Date: February 7, 2025
1. Introduction
In this episode of Today on Broadway, host James Marino delivers the latest news from the Broadway scene before diving into an engaging conversation with renowned Broadway producer Oliver Roth. The episode offers listeners a blend of current updates, insightful discussions on ongoing productions, and a glimpse into upcoming theatrical ventures.
2. News Roundup
a. Casting Announcement for Goodnight and Good Luck
Broadway is abuzz with the casting news for the highly anticipated production of Goodnight and Good Luck. According to Greg Evans from Deadline, the show marks George Clooney’s Broadway debut. The stellar cast also includes:
- Alana Glaser
- Clark Gregg
- Mack Brandt
- Paul Gross
Quote:
"The large cast of the upcoming Goodnight and Good Luck, starring George Clooney in his Broadway debut, has been announced by producers."
— Greg Evans, Deadline [00:40]
b. Crowdfunding Vision Care for Christine Petty
Logan Caldwell Block from Playbill highlights a heartwarming initiative within the Broadway community. Producers Tom and Michael Dangora have launched a GoFundMe campaign aiming to raise $20,000 for Broadway and cabaret icon Christine Petty. The funds will cover her treatment for gradual vision loss at the Mayo Clinic, as her insurance does not cover out-of-state care.
Quote:
"The theatrical community is now rallying around her with the crowdfunding campaign to help stabilize her condition."
— Logan Caldwell Block, Playbill [02:15]
c. Urinetown Opens at City Center Encores
Following up on recent developments, Urinetown has officially opened at City Center Encores. Broadway World’s review roundup praises the production as a “side-splitting satire” set in a dystopian world where water scarcity leads to oppressive fees for using public restrooms.
Synopsis:
In a society where water is a scarce resource, citizens must pay to use public restrooms controlled by a selfish tycoon. The protagonist leads the community in a fight against this oppression, sparking significant change.
d. Titus Burgess to Star in O Mary
Hayley Levitt from BroadwayWorld announces that Titus Burgess will portray Mary Todd Lincoln in the Broadway production O Mary. The show will run for three weeks at the Lyceum Theatre, adding another notable performance to Burgess's illustrious career.
Quote:
"For three weeks only, Burgess will take on the title role at the Lyceum Theatre."
— Hayley Levitt, BroadwayWorld [03:55]
3. Opening Night Remembrance
February 7 marks the Opening Night Remembrance for Porgy and Bess. This production, running its fourth edition at City Center, joins a rich history with previous Broadway runs in 1935, 1942, 1943, and subsequent productions up to 2012. The enduring legacy of Porgy and Bess continues to captivate audiences with its compelling narrative and musical prowess.
4. Guest Interview: Oliver Roth
In the second half of the episode, host James Marino engages in a comprehensive interview with Oliver Roth, an award-winning Broadway producer known for his diverse portfolio, including Sunset Boulevard, All In, Romeo and Juliet, and Good Night and Good Luck.
a. Involvement in Sunset Boulevard
Oliver Roth shares an intriguing origin story of his involvement with Sunset Boulevard. Despite not having seen the full production prior to committing financially, Roth was captivated within the first ten minutes of the London opening night.
Quote:
"Ten minutes into the production... that was probably the best 10 minutes of musical theater I've ever seen."
— Oliver Roth [06:48]
Roth praises Nicole Scherzinger and Jamie Lloyd for their exceptional performances, highlighting the magical production that seamlessly blends talent and storytelling.
b. Production Insights and Challenges
Discussing the logistical marvel of Sunset Boulevard, Roth references a New York Times feature that delves into the complexities of staging live outdoor moments on Broadway. He expresses awe at the production’s ability to execute intricate scenes consistently every night.
Quote:
"It’s a really amazing theatrical moment... a really amazing feat of theatrical accomplishment."
— Oliver Roth [11:26]
c. Current Productions: All In and Romeo and Juliet
Roth provides updates on his current shows:
-
All In: A comedy about love featuring rotating casts including Annaleigh Ashford and Tim Meadows. The show employs a unique approach of rotating casts to bring fresh interpretations to Simon Rich’s humorous pieces.
-
Romeo and Juliet: Scheduled to close on February 16th alongside All In, showcasing Roth’s knack for managing multiple productions concurrently.
Quote:
"Seeing different comic actors and comedians take on these stories has been just really inspiring."
— Oliver Roth [15:10]
d. Future Projects and Teasers
Oliver Roth hints at exciting projects on the horizon, including a new show titled Nightingalek and a revival of Good Night and Good Luck at the Winter Garden Theatre. He emphasizes the high-quality productions and encourages listeners to secure tickets early due to limited availability.
Quote:
"There are some affordable-ish tickets on sale right now and I don't know how long those will be there."
— Oliver Roth [17:29]
5. Conclusion
The episode wraps up with James Marino expressing gratitude to Oliver Roth for his insightful contributions. Marino also acknowledges listeners for their support and hints at Matt Tamonini's return to the show next week.
Quote:
"Thank you for quickly joining us on Broadway Radio and Today on Broadway."
— James Marino [18:45]
6. Notable Moments and Quotes
-
James Marino on Oliver Roth’s Commitment:
"You are one of the producers of Sunset Boulevard. So tell us how you got involved in Sunset."
— James Marino [06:25] -
**Oliver Roth’s Admiration for Sunset Boulevard: **
"Nicole had not even entered the stage, and I just thought it was amazing."
— Oliver Roth [11:26] -
Host’s Appreciation for Roth’s Insight:
"Good night and good luck."
— James Marino concluding the interview [19:33]
7. Additional Information
-
Sponsors:
The episode is sponsored by Factor Meals, offering a 50% discount and free shipping for new customers using the code Broadway50OFF at FactorMeals.com. -
Patreon Support:
Broadway Radio is supported by listeners through Patreon, offering early access to shows, bonus content, and live listening options. More information is available at patreon.com/BroadwayRadio.
Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth discussions on Broadway's latest happenings in upcoming episodes of Today on Broadway.