BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary: Today on Broadway – Friday, May 16, 2025

1. Introduction and Breaking News

The episode kicks off with host Matt Tamnini delivering some poignant news about the Broadway community.

Matt Tamnini [00:05]: "Unfortunately, we have to start with the sad news that the legendary composer of such musicals as Annie and Bye Bye Birdie, Charles Strauss, passed away yesterday at the age of 96."

Matt reflects on Charles Strauss's illustrious career, highlighting his three Tony Awards and numerous contributions to both Broadway and film. He pays tribute to Strauss’s legacy, emphasizing his impact on generations of theater enthusiasts and practitioners alike.

Matt Tamnini [00:05]: "For many people, the musicals of Charles Strauss and his collaborator Lee Adams are some of the things that helped get them into musical theater... Our thoughts are with everybody who loved Charles Strauss as an artist, but also as a person as well."

2. Upcoming Productions and Live Broadcasts

Matt shares exciting news about upcoming Broadway productions set to reach broader audiences.

a. "Good Night and Good Luck" Live Broadcast

The Broadway production of Good Night and Good Luck is set to make history by being broadcast live on CNN.

Matt Tamnini [04:15]: "George Clooney... said, 'I can't tell you how exciting it is to do something that's never been done. CNN is the perfect place to bring this story of courage to so many more people than we could ever have hoped.'"

This live telecast will occur on June 7 at the Winter Garden Theater, featuring special pre-show coverage and live streaming across CNN platforms. Matt underscores the uniqueness of this event, noting its potential significance in Broadway history.

b. Disney's Frozen West End Streaming

Disney has confirmed that the West End production of Frozen, starring Samantha Barks, will stream on Disney+ starting June 20.

Matt Tamnini [06:50]: "The West End production of Frozen starring Samantha Barks will be able to stream on Disney on Friday, June 20."

The production, filmed before its London run concluded in September, features a talented cast and promises to bring the beloved animated classic to a wider audience.

3. Patreon Exclusives and Upcoming Episodes

Matt updates listeners about exclusive content available to Patreon supporters.

Matt Tamnini [08:30]: "If you are a member of our Patreon and at the Mezzanine tier and above, you have already seen and potentially maybe even listened to the very delayed latest episode of Some Like It Pop with Jennifer McHugh."

He announces upcoming travelogue episodes that will delve into recent Broadway shows he attended, as well as insights from his friend Taylor on shows she experienced for the first time.

4. Industry News: Unionizing at the Kennedy Center

A significant development in the Broadway and performing arts community involves the unionization efforts at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Matt Tamnini [14:20]: "A group of more than 90 employees of the Kennedy center are meeting to discuss unionizing... citing concerns over partisan interference in programming, the dismantling of essential departments and job security following the dismissal of nearly 440 staff members."

Backed by the United Auto Workers (UAW), the employees seek greater transparency, ethical hiring practices, and protection against partisan interference. Matt expresses his support for the workers' efforts to restore the Kennedy Center's reputation and operational integrity.

5. New Musical Spotlight: "Goodbye Earl"

The podcast highlights a new musical project titled Goodbye Earl, blending the creative talents of novelist Taylor Jenkins Reid and the iconic band The Chicks.

Matt Tamnini [20:50]: "Goodbye Earl features songs from The Chicks and follows two friends who unite to kill one of their abusive husbands—mirroring the narrative of the original song and music video."

Taylor Jenkins Reid collaborates with Ashley Richard Roger to adapt the story, with The Chicks serving as executive producers. Matt expresses his enthusiasm for the project, recognizing Reid's success in literature and The Chicks' musical legacy.

6. Awards: Dorian Theater Awards Nominations

The Dorian Theater Awards, presented by the Society of LGBTQ Entertainment Critics, have announced their nominees.

Matt Tamnini [24:00]: "The nominees for Outstanding Broadway Musical include Death Becomes Her, Dead Outlaw, Just In Time, Maybe Happy Ending, Operation Mince, Be Meet, and Real Women Have Curves."

Other categories span Outstanding Broadway Play, Revival categories, LGBTQ Broadway Production, and unique categories like Broadway Showstopper Award. Ashley Steeves, a voting member, will participate in the selection process. Winners will be unveiled on June 2.

7. Casting Updates and Anniversary Celebrations

a. 10th Anniversary of Be More Chill

Celebrating a decade since its premiere, Be More Chill will hold a two-concert presentation on July 24-25 at the Two River Theater.

Matt Tamnini [28:30]: "The original cast, including Will Connolly, Lauren Marcus, Eric William Morris, and others, will reunite to honor the show's enduring legacy."

b. Casting Change in The Great Gatsby

Aisha Jackson is set to take over the role of Daisy Buchanan in The Great Gatsby at the Broadway Theater.

Matt Tamnini [31:00]: "Aisha Jackson will replace Sarah Hyland starting exactly one month from today, bringing her acclaimed vocal talents to the role."

c. Performances by Rashidra Scott in Sunset Boulevard

Rashidra Scott will portray Norma Desmond at the St. James Theater in upcoming performances.

Matt Tamnini [34:10]: "Catch Rashidra Scott as Norma Desmond on May 23rd and 24th for unforgettable performances."

d. Charlotte Dambois Returns to Chicago

Charlotte Dambois reprises her role as Roxie Hart in the Broadway production of Chicago, joining Sophie Carmen Jones.

Matt Tamnini [36:40]: "Charlotte replaces Ashley Graham, bringing fresh energy to the iconic role alongside Sophie Carmen Jones as Velma Kelly."

8. Show Recommendations

Matt offers listeners a curated list of shows and performances to watch:

a. PBS's Girl from the North Country

Set to air on May 23rd, this production features songs like "Like a Rolling Stone" performed by Mayor Winningham and the cast.

Matt Tamnini [39:00]: "Check out the video clip to get a sense of the show before watching it on PBS."

b. Kelly Clarkson Show – Jack Malone Performance

Tony nominee Jack Malone from Operation Mincemeat performs the powerful song "Dear Bill."

Matt Tamnini [40:15]: "It's a standout moment that just kind of knocks you out, showcasing the depth of the song."

c. Dead Outlaw on the Today Show

The cast of Dead Outlaw performs "Something for Nothing" and "Normal," offering a glimpse into the musical's vibrant energy.

Matt Tamnini [41:30]: "These performances are perfect for anyone wanting to get a taste of what the show sounds like."

9. Closing Remarks and Final Promotions

Matt wraps up the episode by promoting Grace Aki's To Free a Mockingbird, currently running through May 25th.

Matt Tamnini [43:00]: "Grace would really appreciate your support. Make sure that you get over there and check out this show."

He encourages listeners to follow BroadwayRadio on social media and to stay tuned for upcoming episodes.

Matt Tamnini [43:15]: "Have a wonderful Friday, a wonderful weekend, and we'll be back to talk to you on Monday."

Conclusion

Today's episode of Today on Broadway provided a mix of heartfelt tributes, exciting news about upcoming productions and broadcasts, industry updates, and personal insights from Matt Tamnini. Whether it's celebrating the legacy of Charles Strauss, anticipating groundbreaking live broadcasts, or exploring new musical ventures like Goodbye Earl, listeners were treated to a comprehensive overview of the current Broadway landscape.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Matt Tamnini [00:05]: "Unfortunately, we have to start with the sad news that the legendary composer of such musicals as Annie and Bye Bye Birdie, Charles Strauss, passed away yesterday at the age of 96."

• Matt Tamnini [04:15]: "George Clooney... said, 'I can't tell you how exciting it is to do something that's never been done. CNN is the perfect place to bring this story of courage to so many more people than we could ever have hoped.'"

• Matt Tamnini [14:20]: "A group of more than 90 employees of the Kennedy center are meeting to discuss unionizing... citing concerns over partisan interference in programming, the dismantling of essential departments and job security following the dismissal of nearly 440 staff members."

• Matt Tamnini [20:50]: "Goodbye Earl features songs from The Chicks and follows two friends who unite to kill one of their abusive husbands—mirroring the narrative of the original song and music video."

• Matt Tamnini [24:00]: "The nominees for Outstanding Broadway Musical include Death Becomes Her, Dead Outlaw, Just In Time, Maybe Happy Ending, Operation Mince, Be Meet, and Real Women Have Curves."

• Matt Tamnini [28:30]: "The original cast, including Will Connolly, Lauren Marcus, Eric William Morris, and others, will reunite to honor the show's enduring legacy."

For more detailed discussions and updates, tune into Today on Broadway every Friday on BroadwayRadio.