BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary
Episode: Today on Broadway: Friday, July 11, 2025
Host: Matt Tamminini & Grace Ake
Release Date: July 11, 2025

Introduction and Summer Schedule Update

In the opening segment, Matt Tamminini announces a temporary shift in "Today on Broadway" scheduling due to the prevalence of Summer Fridays in the theater industry. As a result, regular Monday episodes will be paused for July and August, with only major breaking news prompting new episodes. To accommodate loyal listeners, Matt directs audiences to BroadwayRadio's Patreon page for exclusive weekly content during this period.

Matt Tamminini [00:07]:
"For the next few weeks, at least in July and August, for the vast majority of the time, we probably won't have episodes on Monday unless there is some sort of major breaking news that we have to get to."

He highlights an upcoming exclusive conversation with Kate Ranking, discussing her favorite show among 37 productions attended in the past month.

Tony Awards Nominators Announcement

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the unveiling of the Tony Awards nominating committee for the 2025-2026 season. Matt lists all 21 new nominators, emphasizing the diversity and breadth of expertise they bring from various theater disciplines, including sound design, music direction, playwriting, creative direction, choreography, and more. Notable new members include BD Wong, Mark Bennett, and Rob Berman.

Matt Tamminini [03:39]:
"It's a great list there, Grace. Obviously, your buddy BD on that list is very cool, but I love that what the nominating committee always does is it gets a mix of people from across all different fields in theater."

Grace Ake underscores the critical role these nominators play, noting that they hold substantial influence in shaping the awards landscape by determining the pool of shows eligible for Tony voter consideration.

Grace Ake [03:54]:
"I think it's worth noting that these are the most powerful people, like, in the Tony conversation. ... They determine what can even be voted on by those voters. That's the real crux of a lot of these conversations."

Matt further mentions the return of 63 seasoned nominators, including prominent figures like Bob Balaban, Kevin Cahoon, and Jason Tam, ensuring continuity and seasoned judgment in the selection process.

Upcoming Productions and Performances

Twelfth Night at Delacorte Theatre

Matt highlights the highly anticipated production of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night at the Delacorte Theatre, featuring an illustrious cast including Peter Dinklage, Lupita Nyong'o, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, and Sandra Oh. Scheduled to run from August 7th to September 14th, the production promises a unique 90-minute rendition directed by Sahim Ali. Additionally, PBS's Great Performances will broadcast the show on November 14th, expanding its accessibility beyond live audiences.

Matt Tamminini [05:48]:
"I can guarantee will not get any Tony nominations is the upcoming return to the Delacorte Theatre of Shakespeare in the park. And that is going to be Twelfth Night."

Grace echoes Matt's enthusiasm, advocating for support of such productions, especially in light of potential funding cuts to PBS.

Grace Ake [07:54]:
"I think this is an excellent opportunity. ... I think that this is incredibly important."

Bo the Musical Extension

Out of the Box Theatrics has extended its Off-Broadway premiere of Bo the Musical by one week, now closing on August 3rd. Conceived by Douglas Lyons with music by Ethan D. Packshar, the production aims to maximize audience engagement before the company's relocation to a new venue in 2026.

The Heart at La Jolla Playhouse

The episode announces the world premiere of The Heart at La Jolla Playhouse, set to run from August 19th to September 21st. Directed by Christopher [Last Name], the musical features choreography by Mandy Moore and a talented cast including Heidi Blickenstaff, Brie Jackson, and Tony-nominated Jason Tam. The narrative explores themes of organ donation and second chances, following a young surfer's life-saving journey over 24 hours in San Diego.

Matt Tamminini [13:06]:
"It's such a cool way to tell that story. Like that's so unusual for what musicals are about."

Grace expresses her excitement for the innovative storyline and the distinguished cast, anticipating significant attention for the production.

Grace Ake [13:14]:
"I love pieces like this that are kind of exploring a text, but also beyond that. I think that's very cool."

It's Kind of a Funny Story at Vassar's Powerhouse Theater

A special presentation of It's Kind of a Funny Story, a musical adaptation by Alex Brightman and Drew Gasparini, is scheduled for July 18th and 19th at Vassar's Powerhouse Theater. Directed by Sarna Lapine, the production features James Monroe Iglehart, Julia Murney, and Mike Nappy. Based on Ned Vizzini's book, the story revolves around a teenager's experience in an adult psychiatric facility.

Grace shares her personal connection to the show, having participated in an earlier workshop and meeting her fiancé during its presentation to Second Stage. She praises the thoughtful portrayal of mental health and the collaborative efforts of the creators.

Grace Ake [14:15]:
"The way that the music and the script work so well together, if you aren't familiar with their work, their collaboration, Alex and Drew as writers, I think you'll see more in the future."

Matt adds that Alex Brightman is involved in other writing projects, including a potential series for Warner Brothers, hinting at his expanding influence in the entertainment industry.

Upcoming Events and Engagements

Stage and Screen Q&A: Death Becomes Her

Grace promotes her upcoming event at Nighthawk Cinema in Prospect Park, titled Stage and Screen Continues: Death Becomes Her. Scheduled for Monday at 7:15 PM, the session will feature discussions with OnStage Props association member Michael Garrett and a member of the ensemble. The event will include a screening of the film alongside pre-show curated videos, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.

Grace Ake [16:47]:
"There are a few tickets left in the front two rows, so if you want to be a friendly, familiar face, you can buy those tickets right now."

Matt praises the Nighthawk Cinema's pre-show programming, highlighting its unique curation of vintage commercials and videos.

Matt Tamminini [17:33]:
"I will say, while the screenings are all great, I also love the pre show videos that they show on screen at Nighthawk."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Matt reiterating the temporary pause of regular Monday episodes and directing listeners to BroadwayRadio's Patreon for continued content. Both hosts express gratitude to their audience and enthusiasm for the vibrant theater season ahead.

Matt Tamminini [18:22]:
"Have a wonderful Friday, a wonderful weekend. We'll be back to talk to you on."

Grace Ake [18:24]:
"You can find me. Rey Saki."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Matt Tamminini [00:07]:
  "For the next few weeks... we probably won't have episodes on Monday unless there is some sort of major breaking news."

• Grace Ake [03:54]:
  "They determine what can even be voted on by those voters. That's the real crux of a lot of these conversations."

• Matt Tamminini [05:48]:
  "I can guarantee will not get any Tony nominations is the upcoming return to the Delacorte Theatre of Shakespeare in the park."

• Grace Ake [07:54]:
  "I think this is an excellent opportunity... I think that this is incredibly important."

• Matt Tamminini [13:06]:
  "It's such a cool way to tell that story. Like that's so unusual for what musicals are about."

• Grace Ake [14:15]:
  "The way that the music and the script work so well together... I think you'll see more in the future."

• Matt Tamminini [17:33]:
  "I will say, while the screenings are all great, I also love the pre show videos that they show on screen at Nighthawk."

This episode of "Today on Broadway" offers a comprehensive look into current Broadway happenings, upcoming productions, and insider insights, making it a valuable resource for theater enthusiasts and professionals alike.