BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary
Episode: Today on Broadway: Monday, Feb. 24, 2025
Host: Matt Tamenny
Release Date: February 24, 2025
Introduction and Recent Travels
Matt Tamenny opens the episode by sharing his recent trip to London, highlighting his experiences with various Broadway productions abroad.
- Travel Highlights:
- Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing" starring Tom Hiddleston and Hayley Atwell.
- "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button", a heartwarming musical adaptation distinct from both the movie and the original short story.
- "Hadestown" featuring Philip Boykin, delivering a magical performance.
Quote:
"It was a fantastic trip... I will have a full travelog episode in Patreon in the next day or so."
[00:00:45]
Tamenny encourages listeners to check out his Patreon for an in-depth travel experience, promising detailed insights into his London adventure.
Major Broadway News
"Heather's the Musical" Returns to New York
A beloved musical, "Heather's the Musical," is set to make its New York debut at New World Stages, marking its transition from the UK production directed by Andy Fickman.
- Key Details:
- Creative Team: Co-written by Lawrence O'Keefe and Kevin Murphy.
- Performance Dates: June 22 - September 28, 2025.
- Casting: US-based cast replacing the UK ensemble.
Quote:
"One of my favorite musicals that I've never seen in New York is coming back... very excited about this."
[00:05:30]
Tamenny expresses his enthusiasm for the show's return, pondering potential casting choices and anticipating its impact on the Broadway season.
Cancellation of "Eureka Day" at the Kennedy Center
Manhattan Theatre Club's "Eureka Day," initially slated for Washington D.C., faces cancellation due to financial constraints amidst a series of arts event withdrawals linked to the Trump administration's influence.
- Implications:
- Ongoing trend of arts cancellations at the Kennedy Center.
- Notable withdrawals include "Finn," Low Cut Connie, and figures like Renee Fleming and Shonda Rhimes stepping down.
Quote:
"We are truly through the looking glass at this point... it's certainly one of the hallmarks of this type of leadership style."
[00:10:15]
Tamenny criticizes the administration's impact on the arts, highlighting concerns over authoritarian tendencies and the suppression of artistic expression.
Weekly Theatrical Schedule
Broadway Highlights
- "Othello" Revival at Ethelberry Moore Theater
- Director: Kenny Leon
- Cast: Denzel Washington (Othello), Jake Gyllenhaal (Iago), Molly Osborne (Desdemona), among others.
- Ticketing: Digital lotteries available for affordable access.
Quote:
"If you love Denzel, love Jake, love Kenny, love Billy Shakes... you probably want to jump on that sooner rather than later."
[00:12:50]
- "Purpose" by Brandon Jacobs Jenkins at Helen Hayes Theater
- Director: Felicia Rashad
- Cast: Kerry Young, LaTonya Richardson Jackson, Harry Lennox, and more.
- Synopsis: Explores the complexities of a prominent Black American political family's legacy and internal struggles.
Quote:
"With a cast like this, I cannot wait to see it... a contender for a lot of awards come Tony time."
[00:16:40]
Off Broadway Openings
-
"Grangeville" at Signature Theater
- Playwright: Samuel D. Hunter
- Director: Jack Serio
- Cast: Paul Sparks (replacement for Brendan Fraser), among others.
- Synopsis: Two half-brothers reconnect amid familial and emotional turmoil.
-
"Curse of the Starving Child" at Signature Center
- Original Play by: Sam Shepard
- Director: Scott Elliott
- Cast: Kalista Flockart, Christian Slater, Cooper Hoffman, Stella Marcus, and others.
Quote:
"An award-winning show by the late great Sam Shepard... in their family home on the verge of collapse."
[00:19:20]
Additional Performances
- "Dakar 2000" by Rajiv Joseph at Manhattan Theatre Club.
- "A Streetcar Named Desire" London Production premieres at Brooklyn Academy of Music with Paul Mescal and Patsy Farren.
Other Noteworthy News
"Pippin" 50th Anniversary Concert Streaming
The concert, featuring Alex Newell and Jack Yarrow, celebrates five decades of "Pippin" and will be available on Broadway HD starting March 13th.
Quote:
"Looking forward to that one. Love that."
[00:22:10]
"The Book of Mormon" Milestone
Surpassing "Rent," "The Book of Mormon" becomes the 11th longest-running Broadway show, with projections to climb higher ranks in the coming years.
Quote:
"The Book of Mormon became the 11th longest-running show in Broadway history, passing Rent."
[00:23:45]
Feel Good Recommendation
Jeremy Jordan's Performance in "Floyd Collins":
Tamenny shares a video of Jordan singing "The Call," highlighting his excitement for the upcoming Broadway production slated to begin on March 27th at Lincoln Center's Vivian Beaumont Theater.
Quote:
"A video of Jeremy Jordan singing the song 'The Call'... can't wait to see it."
[00:24:30]
Reflections on London
Matt provides personal insights into his London visit, emphasizing the vibrant West End theater scene, the cleanliness of the city compared to New York, and the charming British atmosphere.
Quote:
"It felt very weird for me... wonderful experience. Loved the theaters."
[00:25:15]
He praises the renovated Theater Royal Drury Lane, the Ambassadors Theater, and the Lyric for "Hadestown," noting delightful traditions like enjoying ice cream during intermissions.
Conclusion
Matt wraps up the episode by directing listeners to follow BroadwayRadio on social media and his Patreon for additional content, including detailed travel stories and exclusive insights.
Final Quote:
"Thanks for listening to Today on Broadway. Have a wonderful Monday, a wonderful week..."
[00:26:50]
Stay Connected:
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This episode offers a comprehensive overview of current Broadway happenings, insightful critiques on the state of the arts under current administration influences, and exciting previews of upcoming theatrical productions. Whether you're a seasoned theatergoer or new to the Broadway scene, Matt Tamenny's engaging commentary provides valuable perspectives and updates.