BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary: "Today on Broadway: Friday, Jan. 10, 2025"
Release Date: January 10, 2025
Host: Matt Tamineni and Grace Aki
1. Impact of California Wildfires on Broadway Events
Matt Tamineni opens the episode by addressing the devastating wildfires in California, highlighting their significant impact on the arts community. Several major events have been canceled, including the Wicked tour's performances at the Pantages Theater and Jeremy Jordan's concert in Los Angeles.
Matt Tamineni [00:09]: "Obviously these types of things are nowhere near as important as the lives and the homes of the people who are impacted... our thoughts are with those people and hope that this dies down and comes to a stop sooner rather than later."
He emphasizes the importance of checking event statuses before attending and urges listeners to support affected individuals through mutual aid organizations.
2. Eureka Day Extension and Amber Gray's Departure
The hosts discuss the recent extension of Eureka Day, clarifying details about Amber Gray's role in the production. Initially uncertain, Matt acknowledges a mix-up with sources but confirms that Amber Gray will portray Korina until February 1st before transitioning to Hadestown in London.
Matt Tamineni [00:07]: "Amber Gray will play Korina in the show through February 1st. So if you want to check her out in the show before she heads over to do Hadestown in London, you have until the end of the month."
3. Exciting Casting Updates for Hadestown
A major highlight is the casting news for Hadestown. Two new stars, Merle Dandridge and Daniel Breaker, will join the production starting February 18th.
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Merle Dandridge, renowned for her performance in Once on This Island alongside Hailey Kilgore, will take over the role of Persephone.
Matt Tamineni [03:56]: "Merle is such a powerful performer and I cannot wait to see her as Persephone."
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Daniel Breaker, a Tony nominee known for his dynamic performances in Hamilton and Once Upon a Mattress, will step into the role of Hermes. Matt praises Breaker's versatility and anticipates his unique portrayal in Hadestown.
Grace Aki [04:21]: "I'm so excited about this casting... Daniel is a phenomenally nuanced performer."
Both hosts express enthusiasm for seeing these talented actors bring new dimensions to Hadestown.
4. Jonathan Larson Project's Off-Broadway Debut
The podcast covers the forthcoming Off-Broadway debut of the Jonathan Larson Project at the Orpheum Theater, starting previews on Valentine's Day. The production features a stellar cast, including returning performers Adam Chandler Barat, Lauren Marcus, and Andy Mientus, alongside newcomers Taylor Iman Jones and Jason Tamp.
Matt Tamineni [05:58]: "This is a home run in terms of the casting as far as I'm concerned."
Directed by John Simpkins, the show showcases previously unheard songs by Jonathan Larson, curated by Jennifer Ashley Tepper. Matt and Grace commend the dynamic cast and anticipate a successful Off-Broadway run.
5. "42 Balloons" Making Its North American Debut in Chicago
Another exciting announcement is the North American premiere of the new musical "42 Balloons" at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, running from May 24th to June 29th. The musical, which debuted in Manchester, England, narrates the true story of Larry, a truck driver who attempted to fly to Los Angeles using a lawn chair and 42 helium-filled balloons.
Matt Tamineni [06:12]: "This will be very exciting... we will see what happens with 42 Balloons moving forward."
The production team boasts veterans like Kevin McCollum, Andy Barnes, and Wendy Barnes, alongside Sonia Friedman, hinting at a high-quality adaptation. The Chicago Shakespeare Theater is renowned for launching successful shows, including the North American debut of Six.
6. Jeanine Tesori’s Operatic Adaptation of "Grounded" on PBS
The hosts announce that Jeanine Tesori's operatic adaptation of the one-person show "Grounded" will air on PBS's Great Performances at the Met on March 21st. Directed by Michael Mayer, this adaptation transforms the original work by George Brandt—which featured Anne Hathaway—into a rich operatic experience.
Matt Tamineni [06:12]: "This should be very exciting, very interesting."
Featuring mezzo-soprano Emily D'Angelo, the production incorporates advanced technical elements like LED screens, offering viewers a visually and musically captivating performance.
7. Upcoming Performances and Recommendations
Grace Aki shares her excitement for upcoming events, particularly highlighting the 54 Below venue's "54 Sings: Taylor Swift 1989" featuring stars like Tyler Conroy and Cara Rose DiPietro.
Grace Aki [09:04]: "There are so many great opportunities to go see shows right now that you might have missed previously."
She encourages listeners to explore Off-Broadway venues and cabaret spaces, especially amidst a bustling spring Broadway season. Grace cites her anticipation for Caroline Bowman in Sunset Boulevard and urges fans to seize opportunities to experience performances beyond mainstream Broadway shows.
8. Closing Remarks and Social Media Engagement
While the hosts conclude the episode with social media handles and farewell messages, these sections are summarized succinctly as per the podcast's content guidelines.
Notable Quotes:
- Matt Tamineni [00:09]: "Obviously these types of things are nowhere near as important as the lives and the homes of the people who are impacted."
- Grace Aki [04:21]: "Daniel is a phenomenally nuanced performer and I'm very excited about this casting."
- Matt Tamineni [05:58]: "This is a home run in terms of the casting as far as I'm concerned."
- Grace Aki [09:04]: "There are so many great opportunities to go see shows right now that you might have missed previously."
This episode of BroadwayRadio's "Today on Broadway" provides a comprehensive overview of current events affecting the Broadway community, significant casting updates, upcoming productions, and recommendations for theater enthusiasts. Hosts Matt Tamineni and Grace Aki deliver insightful commentary, enriched with timely quotes and valuable information catering to both regular Broadway followers and newcomers alike.