BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary: Today on Broadway – Monday, Dec. 9, 2024

Host: Matt Tammini
Guest: Grace Hockey
Release Date: December 9, 2024

1. Welcome and Personal Anecdotes

The episode kicks off with Matt Tammini welcoming listeners to "Today on Broadway" and introducing Grace Hockey. Matt humorously recounts recording episodes solo last week while Grace was occupied attending the Rockefeller Center tree lighting with Kelly Clarkson.

• Grace Hockey [00:21]: Shares her experience of being unexpectedly stuck at the tree lighting event from 5 PM to 10:20 PM.

• Matt Tammini [00:43]: Mentions Grace's texts with pictures of Kelly Clarkson sent to him during the event, highlighting the camaraderie between the hosts.

2. Stranger Things and Broadway Crossover News

A significant portion of the discussion centers around exciting casting news involving the popular TV series "Stranger Things" and its intersection with Broadway.

• Matt Tammini [01:33]: Announces that TR Knight is cast in both the Broadway show "The First Shadow" and "Stranger Things" Season 5, speculating on the potential for crossover storylines without revealing spoilers.

• Grace Hockey [02:44]: Expresses excitement over the unprecedented crossover between television and Broadway. She highlights TR Knight’s return to theater with an Off-Broadway show and praises his performance in "Grey’s Anatomy," emphasizing the unique blend of TV and stage talent coming together.

3. Rainn Wilson Joins "Urinetown"

The podcast reveals that Rainn Wilson, known for his role in "The Office," will join the principal cast of "Urinetown" on Broadway.

• Matt Tammini [02:44]: Notes Rainn Wilson's casting as Mr. Caldwell P. in "Urinetown," marking another office star joining Broadway's ranks.

• Grace Hockey [03:09]: Expresses surprise and excitement over Rainn Wilson’s involvement, acknowledging his comedic expertise and its suitability for the niche theater production.

4. Closing of "Swept Away"

Grace Hockey discusses the heartbreaking news of "Swept Away" closing next Sunday, sharing her personal connection and disappointment.

• Grace Hockey [03:50 - 06:02]: Reflects on her long-term commitment to the musical, expressing sadness for the cast and creative team. She references John Gallagher Jr.’s acknowledgment of the closure and contemplates the challenges shows face during the holiday season, contrasting with the success of "Happy Ending."

5. Red Bucket Follies Event

The hosts highlight the annual Red Bucket Follies, an event rich with Broadway talent, taking place at the New Amsterdam Theater on December 9 and 10.

• Matt Tammini [06:02]: Lists notable participants including Darleesia Searcy, Kim Exum, Julie Halston, Jim Parsons, and Betty Buckley, who serves as this year’s BCEFA Broadway Legend ornament. He encourages listeners to attend the event, praising its entertainment value and creativity.

• Grace Hockey [07:31]: Recalls her memorable experience attending the event, highlighting a serendipitous moment involving Christian Borle wearing a jacket she previously sold him, showcasing the event’s personal and professional significance.

6. Upcoming Shows and Theatrical Schedule

The podcast delves into several upcoming Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, providing details and anticipatory insights.

a. "Comedy about Love" at Hudson Theater

• Matt Tammini [08:01]: Introduces "Comedy about Love," a highly anticipated, mystery-shrouded Broadway show written by Simon Rich with music by Stephen Merritt. Directed by Alex Timbers, it features a dynamic cast including John Mulaney, Fred Armisen, Reneé Elise Goldsberry, and Richard Kind.

• Grace Hockey [09:25]: Admits to having no insider information about the show but expresses enthusiasm based on the vibrant exterior artwork and her personal taste in comedy. She anticipates an engaging and entertaining experience.

b. "Pen Pals" Off-Broadway Opening at Theater at St. Clement's

• Matt Tammini [09:56]: Details the opening of "Pen Pals," a narrative exploring the enduring friendship of two individuals over decades. The rotating cast includes Tony nominee Joanna Day, Nancy McKeon, Sharon Lawrence, Katherine Curtin, Nia Var Dallas, Mary Beth Peel, Kate Burton, and Pauletta Washington, among others. The show has received positive reviews from out-of-town tryouts.

c. "Cult of Love" at Hayes Theater

• Matt Tammini [10:46]: Announces the opening of "Cult of Love" by Leslie Headland at the Hayes Theater, produced by Second Stage and directed by Trip Cullman. The stellar cast features Molly Bernard, Roberta Colindrez, Barbie Ferreira, Rebecca Henderson, Christopher Lowell, Zachary Quinto, David Raich, Christopher Sears, Mar Winningham, and Shailene Woodley.

• Grace Hockey [11:32]: Describes the show as akin to a "kitchen sink" American family drama with a stellar ensemble, comparing it to Netflix's "Fever Dream." She anticipates a profound exploration of American family dynamics and cult-like societal influences.

7. Closing Show Announcements for December 15

The hosts inform listeners about various Broadway and Off-Broadway shows scheduled to close on December 15.

• Matt Tammini [12:22]:
  • Broadway Closures: "Swept Away," "The Notebook" (closing earlier than planned), and "Roommate" at the Booth Theater.
  • Off-Broadway Closures: "300 Paintings" from Vineyard, "Big Gay Jamboree," "King Lear" starring Kenneth Branagh at the Shed, "Shit Meat Fan" featuring the MCC ensemble, and "Tender Napalm."

8. New Musical Reading: "Call Me from the Grave"

The podcast introduces a new musical reading titled "Call Me from the Grave," highlighting its creative team and thematic elements.

• Matt Tammini [12:22]: Provides details about the reading hosted by Amas Musical Theater, with music and lyrics by Charlie Romano and a book by Harold Judge Jr., directed by Tiffany Nicole Green. The narrative centers on Robert Johnson, the legendary blues guitarist who mythically sold his soul to the devil. The score blends blues with themes of love, faith, and fame. Cast members include Melvin Abstin, April Armstrong, Chris Coleman, Bradley Gibson, Danielle Lee Greaves, Alan H. Green, Cameron Kite, Aaron James McKenzie, Christiana Pitts, and Rick Younger.

9. Adam Lambert’s "Cabaret" Music Video

Matt and Grace discuss Adam Lambert's latest musical endeavor, highlighting his performance in a "Cabaret" music video.

• Matt Tammini [14:46]: Shares excitement over Adam Lambert releasing a music video for "I Don't Care Much" from "Cabaret." He praises Lambert's talent and laments the delay in his Broadway appearances, expressing hope for his continued presence in mainstream theater.

• Grace Hockey [15:14]: Echoes Matt’s enthusiasm, mentioning Adam’s exceptional performance and recommending similar artists like Mason Alexander Park. She praises Lambert’s contributions to the West End and encourages listeners to experience his performances.

10. Social Media and Wrap-Up

The episode concludes with information on how listeners can connect with the hosts on social media.

• Matt Tammini [15:21]: Encourages followers to find him on Instagram (@bww.matt) and Grace on her platform (@gracehockey).

• Grace Hockey [15:21]: Provides her contact handle for listeners to connect.

• Matt Tammini [15:23]: Thanks listeners and signs off, wishing everyone a wonderful week ahead.

Notable Quotes:

• Grace Hockey [00:21]: "I thought it was going to be something that I just saw for 20 minutes and no, no, no, no, no."

• Matt Tammini [01:33]: "I know. Don't spoil the secrets. You saw it in London. We don't want to give anything away."

• Grace Hockey [02:44]: "I think it's really exciting. I've never heard of anything like it."

• Grace Hockey [03:50]: "It really does make my heart break."

• Grace Hockey [07:31]: "I have a crazy full circle moment that I was working on Broadway and Christian Borle was wearing a jacket that I had sold him."

• Grace Hockey [09:25]: "I need to know. And it's all the things that I like. Take my money, please."

• Grace Hockey [11:32]: "I really love cult stuff. It is not about cult stuff, but I think the cult of being in an American family."

• Grace Hockey [15:14]: "They're so, so phenomenal, and I really, really love this video."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the vibrant discussions and key highlights from the "Today on Broadway" episode, offering listeners an engaging overview of current Broadway news, upcoming events, and personal insights from hosts Matt Tammini and Grace Hockey.