BroadwayRadio: Today on Broadway – Friday, March 14, 2025
Host: Matt Timminenti
Release Date: March 14, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of Today on Broadway, host Matt Timminenti dives deep into the latest Broadway news, including exciting show premieres, notable casting announcements, and upcoming publications. Additionally, Matt shares a delightful segment featuring Bernadette Peters' humorous appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. This comprehensive summary encapsulates all the key discussions, insights, and announcements from the episode.
Major Show Announcements
1. Cirque du Soleil's "Drawn to Life" at Disney Springs
Matt kicks off the episode by sharing his anticipation for Cirque du Soleil’s newest performance, Drawn to Life, scheduled to premiere at Disney Springs on Sunday. Describing it as a blend of Disney magic and Cirque's signature artistry, Matt expresses excitement about reconnecting with Cirque after a decade-long hiatus.
Matt Timminenti [02:30]: "I have not seen a Cirque show in well over a decade and this is a new show at Disney Springs. It’s definitely a Disney-influenced Cirque show, and I’m looking forward to seeing that."
2. US Premiere of "Two Strangers and Carry a Cake Across New York"
A significant highlight is the announcement of the US premiere of the West End musical Two Strangers and Carry a Cake Across New York at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts, starting May 20th for a five-week run until June 29th.
Matt provides an overview of the show’s success in London, where it enjoyed a 10-week run at the Kiln Theatre before transferring to the West End’s Criterion Theater. Written by Jim Barn and Kit Buchan, and directed/choreographed by Tim Jackson, the musical follows Dougal, a naive Brit, and Robin as they navigate the challenges of carrying a cake across New York City.
Matt Timminenti [04:45]: "It had a very successful 10-week run at the Kiln Theatre in London before transferring to the Criterion Theater in the West End. The cast album is available to listen if you want to hear about it."
This production replaces the iconic Tony-winning musical Passing Strange, which was canceled due to elevated production costs. Matt anticipates that Two Strangers might pave the way for a New York or even Broadway run.
Notable Casting Announcements
1. Ashley Graham Joins Broadway's "Chicago"
In a surprising and exciting development, supermodel Ashley Graham is set to take on the role of Roxie Hart in the Broadway production of Chicago, beginning April 15th and running through May 25th. Matt highlights Graham’s illustrious career in modeling and her lack of traditional acting credentials, making her casting a bold and intriguing move.
Matt Timminenti [06:20]: "She has over 21 million followers on Instagram. It’ll be interesting to see if that translates into people showing up at the Ambassador Theater."
Despite her primarily modeling background, Ashley Graham brings immense star power and a massive social media following, which could attract a diverse audience to the production.
2. Joey Fatone Returns to Broadway's "Juliet"
Pop icon Joey Fatone is making his return to Broadway’s Juliet, concluding his first run on March 16th. He is scheduled to reprise his role starting April 22nd through July 31st, replacing Hayden Taylor, who will cover the interim period from March 18th to April 20th.
Matt applauds the show's strategy of incorporating talent from various international productions to enrich the show's dynamic.
Matt Timminenti [07:50]: "They are bringing in people from other productions to do this show, whether for short periods or longer periods. It’s a great way to connect the show to its history."
Fatone’s Broadway experience and enthusiasm promise to invigorate the production, maintaining its popularity and ensuring a memorable performance.
Off-Broadway Highlights
1. "The Swamp Dwellers" – Off-Broadway Premiere
The Off-Broadway premiere of The Swamp Dwellers, written by Nobel Prize winner Wole Soyinka and directed by Obiwinner Ow ye Tempo, is set to run at Tifana from March 30th to April 20th. This 1958 play blends Nigerian myths with a mid-20th-century family drama, presenting a rich cultural narrative.
Matt Timminenti [08:10]: "It uses myths to integrate into a mid-20th century story that takes place during one day in the life of a Nigerian family."
Featuring a talented cast including Tony nominee Etou Blankson Wood and Leon Addison Brown, the production promises to deliver a powerful and evocative theatrical experience.
2. New York Theatre Company’s Workshop of "Machina"
Chelena Kennedy's New York Theatre Company is launching its first production with a workshop run of Sophie Treadwell’s iconic play, Machina. Scheduled for April 2nd, 6th, 12th, and 18th at the New York City Fringe, the workshop will be directed by Amy Marie Seidel.
Matt expresses personal enthusiasm for Machina, considering it one of his top five plays, and anticipates a compelling rendition led by Catherine Winter.
Matt Timminenti [08:50]: "I often tell people that Machina is one of my top five plays."
This production marks an exciting addition to the fringe scene, offering fresh interpretations of classic works.
Upcoming Publications
"Hirschfeld's Sondheim" – New Poster Book Release
A highly anticipated publication, Hirschfeld's Sondheim, is set to release on September 9th. Creative Director David Leopold of the Al Hirschfeld Foundation curates this poster book, featuring art by the legendary Al Hirschfeld, an introduction by Bernadette Peters, and a foreword by Ben Brantley.
Matt Timminenti [09:20]: "There’s no question I will have this book. And if there are prints of these made available, I will probably get those for my wall as well."
The book offers a nostalgic and artistic homage to Stephen Sondheim’s illustrious career, making it a must-have for Broadway enthusiasts and collectors.
Celebrity Appearances and Feel-Good Moments
1. Bernadette Peters on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon"
One of the episode's standout segments features Bernadette Peters’ charming and humorous appearance on The Tonight Show. While promoting Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends at the Samuel J. Friedman Theater, Peters showcases her comedic talents by reluctantly agreeing to sing on-air.
Bernadette Peters [08:55]: "I haven’t rehearsed anything. Hit it."
Her playful interaction with host Jimmy Fallon, including improvisational lyrics, reveals a side of Peters that fans adore—her impeccable comic timing and versatility beyond her dramatic musical roles.
Bernadette Peters [09:27]: "Our wires, man."
Matt praises this appearance, highlighting Peters' multifaceted talent and her ability to effortlessly blend drama with comedy.
Matt Timminenti [09:52]: "Bernadette has such great comic timing and a wonderful voice. I cannot wait to see this show."
2. Audra McDonald, Danny Burstein, and Joy Woods on "The Kelly Clarkson Show"
Matt also touches on a delightful performance featuring Audra McDonald, Danny Burstein, and Joy Woods on The Kelly Clarkson Show. Their collaboration brings a warm and engaging dynamic, further enriching the current Broadway landscape.
Matt Timminenti [10:25]: "If you want to check out the video for that, we will have it in the show notes."
This segment underscores the vibrant community of Broadway performers continually showcasing their talents across various media platforms.
Conclusion
Matt Timminenti wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to stay connected through social media channels and tune in for upcoming shows and episodes. With a blend of thrilling announcements, casting news, and heartwarming celebrity moments, this episode of Today on Broadway offers a comprehensive overview of the vibrant theatrical world.
Matt Timminenti [11:22]: "Have a wonderful Friday, a safe and unambitious Ides of March, and we'll be back to talk to you on Monday."
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This summary encapsulates the key points and engaging discussions from the March 14, 2025 episode of Today on Broadway. Whether you're a seasoned theater enthusiast or new to the Broadway scene, these highlights provide valuable insights into the dynamic world of theater.