BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary: Today on Broadway – Friday, July 18, 2025
Host: Matt Tammadeni
Co-Host: Grace Aki
Release Date: July 18, 2025
Podcast Description: Broadway's Premier Podcasts
1. Critical Update on New York City Theater Tax Credits
Time Stamp: [00:07]
Matt Tammadeni opens the episode with alarming news from Philip Boroff via the Broadway Journal. The Broadway League has announced the depletion of the four-year-old New York City musical and theatrical production tax credit program. This development poses a significant threat to Broadway productions, with only shows that commence public performances by September 15th eligible to receive up to $3 million in subsidies. Future productions starting after this date will be ineligible.
"The Broadway League held a video meeting with members on Tuesday afternoon to disclose the depletion of the four-year-old New York City musical and theatrical production tax credit program..."
— Matt Tammadeni [00:15]
The tax credit has been instrumental in subsidizing approximately 25% of Broadway's costs, making it a linchpin for financial viability, especially for star-studded productions. With $400 million already allocated and only a slight extension from the state’s $100 million allocation in May, the sustainability of future Broadway shows hangs in the balance.
Grace Aki emphasizes the gravity of the situation:
"Grace, you know that like when it comes to shows recouping and making money and therefore encouraging investors to put money into future productions, this has been huge."
— Matt Tammadeni [02:34]
The hosts discuss the potential ripple effects on the theater community, projecting a likely decline in new productions and increased financial strain on existing shows.
2. "Call Me Izzy" Announces Cast Changes and Extended Run
Time Stamp: [02:47]
Transitioning to brighter news, Matt Tammadeni shares updates from Studio 54 concerning the Broadway production of "Call Me Izzy". Due to actress Jean Smart's knee injury, she has taken a two-week leave of absence. In her absence, Johanna Day steps into the titular role until July 20th. Excitingly, Jean Smart is set to return on Tuesday, July 22nd, prompting an extension of the show's run through August 24th.
"After a two week leave of absence due to her knee injury, Jean Smart will return to the title role on Tuesday."
— Matt Tammadeni [03:52]
Grace Aki expresses her relief and enthusiasm:
"They were really thrilled and delighted for the fact that this was not that at all. It was more so an extension and announcement that things would be moving forward so great for them."
— Grace Aki [04:25]
The extension allows more audiences the opportunity to experience Jean Smart’s performance and alleviates concerns fueled by misinformation on platforms like Reddit.
3. Exciting Casting Announcements for "Hadestown"
Time Stamp: [04:34]
Matt Tammadeni delves into casting news for the beloved musical "Hadestown", which has been praised for its stellar casting choices. Starting September 2nd, five new actors will join the North American production:
- Paulo Zhatt as Hades – Tony Award winner
- Rebecca Naomi Jones as Persephone
- Kurt Elling as Hermes – Grammy-winning jazz singer
- Jack Wolf as Orpheus – Known for his role as Gabe in the London production of Next to Normal
- Morgan Dudley as Eurydice – Recognized from the Disney musical franchise Descendants
"They have [Hadestown] done a great job of bringing people from across the music industry."
— Matt Tammadeni [06:12]
Grace Aki shares her excitement, highlighting the diverse and talented ensemble:
"I think this is going to be excellent. And I know Morgan is so fantastic. So this is a great casting all around. I'm really thrilled."
— Grace Aki [07:16]
The addition of prominent figures from music and theater promises to elevate the production, maintaining Hadestown's reputation for excellence.
4. "Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella" North American Tour Casting
Time Stamp: [07:22]
Shifting focus to touring productions, Matt Tammadeni announces the casting for the upcoming North American tour of Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Cinderella". Directed by Jack O'Brien and choreographed by Danny Mefford, the tour marks a decade since its 2015 inception. Key cast members include:
- Maria Kaylee Capaldi as Cinderella – BroadwayRadio guest
- Kevin Early as Captain Von Trapp
- Christiane Noel as Mother Abbess – Tony nominee
- Nicholas Rodriguez as Max Detweiler
- Kate Lowprest as Elsa
The tour kicks off in Utica on September 5th, with performances stretching into 2026.
"Additional casting will be announced at a later date."
— Matt Tammadeni [08:10]
5. Reopening of the Cherry Lane Theater Under New Ownership
Time Stamp: [08:36]
Matt Tammadeni shares thrilling news about the Cherry Lane Theater, now under the ownership of 24 After. Following a two-year renovation, the theater is set to reopen in September with a series of high-profile events:
- Sundays with Sophia – A film screening series hosted by Sofia Coppola, beginning September 14th with Adrienne Lynn's "Foxes".
- Theater Productions – Including a reading of Robert Nemiroff's "To Be Young, Gifted, and Black" and the one-woman show "We're Happening".
- Stand-Up and Music Events – Featuring Ramy Youssef and a listening party for HAIM's new album.
"But I think, Grace, most importantly for you is the theater is open."
— Matt Tammadeni [09:32]
Grace Aki expresses her deep enthusiasm:
"This is just very exciting thing and I just want to be a part of it."
— Grace Aki [10:04]
The reopening signifies a revitalization of one of New York's historic theaters, promising a vibrant lineup for audiences.
6. Recommendations and Closing Remarks
Time Stamp: [10:27]
Wrapping up the content segment, Matt Tammadeni offers recommendations:
-
Roundabout Theater Company's Video: A split-screen performance featuring David Hyde Pierce singing "Modern Major General" alongside ASL interpreter Christopher Tester at the Todd Haymes Theater.
"You even see David Hyde Pierce give Christopher head nod at the end of it."
— Matt Tammadeni [10:45] -
"BO the Musical" by Out of the Box Theatrics: Starring Matt Rodin, currently playing through August 3rd with tickets available.
Grace Aki touches on the emotional closure of "Sunset Boulevard", set to end on July 20th. Her connection to the production is heartfelt, reflecting her deep investment and passion:
"I really cannot stress... I have really, really cared deeply about just everything from the launch to the... I just love film and I love what this film has lent itself to, like cinematically in Jamie Lloyd's production."
— Grace Aki [11:55]
Matt Tammadeni encourages listeners to support and experience the closing show and related film screenings.
Conclusion
The episode of Today on Broadway delivered a robust mix of urgent industry updates, exciting casting news, and heartfelt reflections on beloved productions. Hosts Matt Tammadeni and Grace Aki adeptly navigated topics critical to the Broadway community, offering listeners both information and insight into the evolving landscape of New York City theater.
Notable Quotes:
-
Matt Tammadeni: "We've talked about this quite a bit in terms of how shows, especially with stars, are able to remain solvent and profitable because of tax credits like this." [01:30]
-
Grace Aki: "I simply must be involved... I am deeply enamored." [10:10]
For more exclusive content and updates, visit: patreon.com/broadwayradio | broadwayradio.com
Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram (@broadwayradio)
This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the July 18, 2025, episode of BroadwayRadio's Today on Broadway. Whether you're a seasoned theater enthusiast or new to the Broadway scene, this overview provides a comprehensive glimpse into the vibrant world of New York's theatrical landscape.