Today on Broadway: Friday, May 23, 2025 – Detailed Summary

BroadwayRadio | Host: Matt Tiamineni

Introduction

In the May 23, 2025 episode of "Today on Broadway," host Matt Tiamineni provides listeners with an insightful overview of upcoming Broadway productions, updates on the Tony Awards, and notable events happening in the Broadway scene as Memorial Day weekend approaches.

Upcoming Broadway Revival: Yasmina Reza’s "Art"

Matt kicks off the episode with exciting news about a Broadway revival of Yasmina Reza's Tony Award-winning comedy, "Art." Set to debut at the Music Box Theater on August 28th, the limited-run production will run through December 21st.

• Director: Scott Ellis, renowned for his work on "Pirates of Penzance" and other Broadway hits.

• Cast:

  • Bobby Cannavale as Mark (originally played by Alan Alda)
  • James Corden as Ivan (originally played by Alfred Molina)
  • Neil Patrick Harris as Serge (originally played by Victor Garber)

Matt clarifies a recent misreport, stating:

“[00:02:15] 'There was actually a Daily Mail article earlier on Thursday that said Corden was going to be playing Serge. That is obviously now confirmed to be false, but he is in the cast.'”

This revival marks the first staging of "Art" on Broadway since its original run in 1998. The play, originally written in French by Reza and translated into English by Christopher Hampton, explores the complexities of friendship when one friend purchases an expensive painting that the others disdain.

Matt highlights the impressive return of James Corden to Broadway since his Tony-winning performance in "One Man, Two Guvnors," as well as Neil Patrick Harris's recent appearances in "Peter Pan Goes Wrong" and the Off-Broadway show "Shit, Meet Fan" at MCC. Bobby Cannavale is noted for his performance in "Here We Are," Stephen Sondheim’s final musical Off-Broadway at the Shed.

Ticket Information:

• Fan Presale: Launching on May 29th
• General Sale: Begins on Friday, May 30th

Potential Broadway Arrivals: "Schmigadoon" and "Ride the Cyclone"

Schmigadoon! The Musical

Matt provides an update on "Schmigadoon! The Musical," adapted from the Apple TV+ series. A recent invited reading featured notable cast changes:

• Donalyn Champlin replaces Emily Skinner as Mildred Layton
• Max Clayton takes over Danny Bailey from Ryan Vasquez
• Yvonne Hernandez steps in as Doc Lopez, replacing Javier Munoz
• Pearl Sun replaces Ann Harada as Florence Menlove

Matt discusses the uncertainty surrounding the show's future:

“[00:12:45] 'I haven't really been able to get a clear answer as to whether or not they are working on this show still because they want to bring it to New York or if they want to do it for licensing purposes.'”

He speculates that with Broadway Video—owned by Lorne Michaels—involved, a Broadway run is likely, though confirmation is pending.

Ride the Cyclone: UK Premiere and Potential Broadway Run

Another highlight is the UK premiere of "Ride the Cyclone" at the Southwark Playhouse Elephant, scheduled from November 14th to January 10th. Originally premiered in Canada in 2008 and Off-Broadway in 2016, the musical has gained a cult following, especially after its cast album's popularity surged on social media in 2021.

Key points Matt mentions:

• Producer: Kevin McCollum, known for turning scrappy shows into Broadway successes, including "Six."
• Director and Choreographer: Lizzie Gee

Matt expresses optimism about the show's future:

“[00:20:30] 'The fact that Kevin McCollum is actively involved with this show in its UK premiere means that it is very, very likely to also be looking for a run in New York City.'”

He notes the possibility of incorporating American talent into future productions, potentially paving the way for a Broadway debut, though it may initially find a home Off-Broadway.

Tony Awards Updates: Hosts and First Impressions Cam

As the Tony Awards approach, Matt shares updates on the pre-show host and the First Impressions cam:

• Pre-Show Host: Still awaiting announcement, Matt hints it could be a current Tony nominee for Best Actor in a Musical with a background on "Glee."

• First Impressions Cam Host: Confirmed to be Bonnie Milligan, a certified Tony winner known for her vibrant performances.

Matt elaborates on Bonnie's role:

“[00:25:10] 'Bonnie is great. I'm sure she will be sweet and lovely and funny and she knows what it's like to get off that stage and have all of your thoughts and all of your emotions cascading out of your mouth all at one time.'”

First Impressions Cam will showcase backstage moments and immediate reactions from winners post-acceptance, available on the Tony Awards' social media platforms and selected broadcasts.

Local Broadway Events: Hanford Ham at Richard Rogers Theater

For those in New York City, Hanford Ham returns to the Richard Rogers Theater at 4 PM, featuring three free performances of Tony-nominated shows:

• Best Revival: Floyd Collins
• Best Musical: Death Becomes Her and Dead Outlaw

Matt advises:

“[00:30:50] 'If you want to see all of those folks together just standing on a sidewalk doing some performances, head over to the Richard Rogers probably pretty early because even if the performances start at 4:00, like you're gonna have to get there pretty close to be able to see those.'”

He also mentions possible appearances by personalities like Lin-Manuel Miranda, hinting at a lively and star-studded event captured in promotional Photoshop images.

Conclusion and Reminders

Matt wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to:

• Attend Grace's final performance of "To Free a Mockingbird" at the Soho Playhouse, available until Sunday, May 25th. Tickets can be obtained through the link provided in the show notes.

• Follow BroadwayRadio on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates.

He signs off with well-wishes for a wonderful Friday and an enjoyable Memorial Day weekend, promising to return with more Broadway insights the following week.

Thank you for tuning into "Today on Broadway." Stay connected and enjoy the vibrant world of Broadway!