BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary
Episode: Today on Broadway: Monday, February 3, 2025
Release Date: February 3, 2025
Host: James Marino
1. Introduction and Host Updates
James Marino opens the episode by welcoming listeners to "Today on Broadway" for Monday, February 3rd, 2025. He informs the audience that co-host Matt is on vacation, enjoying a well-deserved break on a Caribbean cruise. James outlines the episode's structure, highlighting a recap of current Broadway headlines followed by an engaging interview in the second half featuring Gretchen Cryer and Gracie Hyland discussing their upcoming project, "House on Fire."
2. News Highlights
a. 67th Annual Grammy Awards
The podcast covers the recent Grammy Awards held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The spotlight is on Category 38: Best Musical Theater Album, which was awarded to "Hell's Kitchen". The principal vocalists—Shoshana Bean, Brandon Victor Dixon, Keisha Lewis, and Malaya Join Moon—along with producers Adam Blackstone, Alicia Keys, and Tom Kitt, took home the accolade. The category criteria were detailed, emphasizing the requirement for albums to contain over 51% new recordings.
Notable Quotes:
- James Marino (00:01): “This award is given for albums containing greater than 51% playing time of new recordings.”
b. 2025 Obie Awards
The 2025 Obie Awards, presented by the American Theatre Wing, recognized outstanding Off-Broadway productions including Cola Scola, Cats, the Jellicoe Ball, among others. To facilitate grants, the winners have received a total of $250,000 without a traditional ceremony. A private reception is scheduled for February 10th to honor the victors.
Notable Quotes:
- James Marino (02:00): “A private reception to toast the winners will be held on February 10th.”
c. "Kiss of the Spider Woman" Premiere
A new film adaptation of the musical "Kiss of the Spider Woman," starring Jennifer Lopez, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. The adaptation has received positive reviews, currently holding an 82% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Notable Quotes:
- James Marino (02:30): “Rotten Tomatoes gives it an 82 at the time of recording.”
d. New York Times Feature: New Yorkers' Sundays
The podcast highlights a charming New York Times article featuring Kara Young, showcasing how New Yorkers spend their Sundays. The episode encourages listeners to explore this heartwarming piece for a glimpse into local lifestyles.
Notable Quotes:
- James Marino (02:45): “It's a really charming and wonderful article to take a look at.”
e. Blue Man Group's Broadway Closure
After an impressive 34-year run and the application of 82,150 gallons of paint, the Blue Man Group has officially closed its Broadway show. The New York Times provided an in-depth feature on this significant milestone.
Notable Quotes:
- James Marino (03:00): “After 34 years and 82,150 gallons of paint, the Blue Man Group has closed off Broadway.”
3. Spotlight Interview: "House on Fire" with Gretchen Cryer and Gracie Hyland
In the latter half of the episode, Matt engages in a deep conversation with Gretchen Cryer and Gracie Hyland about their collaborative project, "House on Fire." This segment delves into the genesis, development, and aspirations of the musical, offering listeners an insider's perspective.
a. Genesis of the Project
Gretchen Cryer shares the origins of "House on Fire," revealing that the initial songs were penned 40 years ago, long before Gracie Hyland entered the scene. The project centers around "Captain of Industry," a character leading the world's largest fossil fuel company, and his relationship with his wife, intertwined with themes of climate change.
Notable Quotes:
- Gretchen Cryer (05:37): “Gracie and I had not decided to collaborate on this thing until just very recently... it is called Captain of Industry about a guy who's head of the biggest fossil fuel company in the world.”
b. Evolution and Collaboration
The collaboration began when Gretchen read articles about endangered species and climate anomalies, sparking the integration of these elements into the narrative. Gracie Hyland joined the project fresh out of college, bringing a fresh perspective and new songs that seamlessly blended into the evolving story.
Notable Quotes:
- Gretchen Cryer (06:45): “I thought, oh my God, when that mother dies, that Fatu is going to be the only one left.”
c. Themes and Messaging
"House on Fire" serves as a fanciful fairy tale addressing the urgent issue of climate change. The narrative weaves together diverse characters, including Mother Earth, the California Condor, and the Homeless Children's Brigade, symbolizing the interconnectedness of all life forms and the collective responsibility to safeguard the planet.
Notable Quotes:
- Gracie Hyland (10:53): “We are using our gifts and the way that we express our art to share this message... we're trying to bring hope to it.”
d. Personal Reflections
Both Gretchen and Gracie reflect on their personal motivations and the emotional resonance of the project. Gretchen appreciates the opportunity to collaborate with her granddaughter, while Gracie speaks about overcoming initial fears and embracing her creative lineage inspired by her grandmother.
Notable Quotes:
- Gracie Hyland (23:11): “I never expected that I would be a writer... I feel so lucky to learn from her and to create with her.”
e. Upcoming Album and Concert Details
The duo announces that the "House on Fire" album is set to release on Friday, February 31st, available in digital formats. Following the album release, a live concert will take place on Tuesday, February 4th at Green Room 42. The concert will feature a five-piece band led by music director Jody Shelton, aiming to mirror the album's essence and bring the story's characters to life on stage.
Notable Quotes:
- Gretchen Cryer (25:19): “They are gonna hear the live concert is gonna sound very much like what they do when they download the actual album.”
- Gracie Hyland (25:41): “They just completely capture the essence that we've been looking for.”
4. Conclusion
James Marino wraps up the episode by expressing enthusiasm for the upcoming "House on Fire" project, commending the heartfelt collaboration between Gretchen and Gracie. He extends best wishes for their album release and the forthcoming concert, encouraging listeners to support and engage with their meaningful work addressing climate change.
Notable Quotes:
- James Marino (26:58): “I wish you the absolute best not only on Tuesday for the concert, but with everything else coming down the pike for House on Fire.”
For more detailed information, including full lists of award winners and links to featured reviews, please refer to the show notes provided with the podcast episode.