BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary: Today on Broadway – Monday, March 10, 2025
Host: Matt Tamineni
Podcast: BroadwayRadio
Episode Title: Today on Broadway: Monday, March 10, 2025
Release Date: March 10, 2025
1. Celebrating a Milestone Anniversary
Timestamp: [00:27]
Matt Tamineni opens the episode by commemorating the 9th anniversary of the "Today on Broadway" podcast. Reflecting on the journey since its inception in 2016 with co-host James Marino, Matt shares heartfelt gratitude towards colleagues and listeners who have supported the show over nearly a decade.
Notable Quote:
"James Marino and I started doing this show together in 2016. It is wild to me that I have now been doing this show mostly five days a week for nine years." – Matt Tamineni
He acknowledges key contributors, including Grace, Ashley Steeves, Aki, Natalie Nowak, Danielle Parcell, Caitlin Milligan, and others, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that has sustained the podcast.
2. Key News and Updates
a. Passing of Ethel Fugard
Timestamp: [Around 05:00]
The host delivers the somber news of the passing of Ethel Fugard, a luminary in the world of theater, who died at 92 years old in South Africa. Fugard was renowned for his poignant plays that tackled political and social issues, most notably opposing apartheid.
Notable Highlights:
- Achievements: Wrote over 30 plays, directed, acted, and received eight Tony Award nominations.
- Notable Works: Master Harold and the Boys, Blood Knot, The Road to Mecca.
- Legacy: Widely regarded as the greatest South African playwright, his novel Tzi won the Academy Award for Best International Feature in 2005.
b. ACLU Files Lawsuit Against NEA Restrictions
Timestamp: [Around 15:30]
Matt discusses a significant legal battle where the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has filed a lawsuit on behalf of four non-profit arts and theater organizations. The lawsuit challenges new restrictions imposed on the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) by an executive order purportedly limiting the promotion of "gender ideology."
Key Points:
- Organizations Involved: Rhode Island Latino Arts, National Queer Theater, Theatre Offensive, Theatre Communications Group.
- Legal Grounds: The lawsuit asserts that the restrictions violate the First and Fifth Amendments, undermining the NEA's mandate to fund based solely on artistic excellence without political interference.
- Current Situation: National Queer Theatre plans to apply for NEA funding but faces the dilemma of complying with the disputed restrictions.
Notable Quote:
"Even if judges say these things are unconstitutional, the fact that organizations have to fight to return to normal means these executive orders are having the negative impact the administration intends." – Matt Tamineni
Matt expresses concern over the administration's actions, highlighting the ongoing struggle for arts organizations to secure funding and maintain creative freedom.
3. Theatrical Schedule and Previews
Timestamp: [Around 20:00]
Matt provides an extensive overview of upcoming Broadway and Off Broadway shows, highlighting preview performances, openings, and significant productions.
a. Broadway Previews Starting Tonight
-
The Picture of Dorian Gray at Music Box Theater
- Opening Date: Previews begin March 27
- Adaptation: Based on Oscar Wilde's novel, adapted and directed by Kip Williams.
- Notable Cast: Sarah Snook delivers a one-person performance portraying over two dozen characters.
- Quote:
"This is one of the most incredible things to see in person. I already have my ticket to see this show when I'm in town." – Matt Tamineni
-
Glengarry Glen Ross at Palace Theater
- Opening Date: Previews begin March 31
- Adaptation: David Mamet’s classic, directed by Patrick Marber.
- Star-Studded Cast: Bill Burr, Bob Odenkirk, Kieran Culkin, among others.
- Remarks: Matt anticipates a dynamic rendition that distinguishes itself from the film version.
b. Off Broadway Openings Tonight
- Ghosts by Henrik Ibsen at Lincoln Center Theater
- The Jonathan Larson Project at Orpheum Theater
- Great Privation: How to Flip 10 Cents into a Dollar by Soho Rep at Playwrights Horizons
c. Upcoming Previews and Openings
Tuesday, March 11th:
-
Boop: The Betty Boop Musical at Broadhurst Theater
- Opening Date: April 5
- Creative Team: Music by David Foster, directed/choreographed by Jerry Mitchell.
- Cast Highlights: Jasmine Amy Rogers, Eric Bergen, Faith Prince.
-
Smash Musical Revival at Imperial Theater
- Opening Date: April 10
- Creative Team: Book by Rick Ellis and Bob Martin, directed by Susan Stroman.
- Cast Highlights: Jacqueline B. Arnold, Brooks Ashmanskas, Bella Coppola.
-
One-Person Vanya at Lucille Lortel Theater
- Starring: Andrew Scott.
- Personal Note: Matt and Grace will attend this performance together.
-
Grease Parody Concert at Town Hall
- Special Performers: Includes Kerry Butler, James Carpinello, Rachel Dratch.
Wednesday, March 12th:
- Good Night and Good Luck at Winter Garden Theater
- Opening Date: April 3
- Adaptation: From the screenplay by Grant Heslov and George Clooney.
- Notable Cast: George Clooney as Edward R. Murrow, Clark Gregg.
Thursday, March 13th:
- Have You Met Jane Goodall and Her Mother at Ensemble Studio Theater
Sunday, March 17th:
- Closing Performance of Beckett Briefs by Ira Schrepp
4. Special Events and Recommendations
Timestamp: [Around 35:00]
Matt shares information on a special event and offers three feel-good recommendations:
-
Benefit Reading of "Genius" on April 14th
- Location: Lucille Lortel Theater
- Details: Musical comedy based on Patrick Dennis's novel, featuring stars like Matthew Broderick and Natasha Diaz.
- Book: Michael Heisman and Eileen Reid
- Music/Lyrics: Reed and Spanish translations by Jaime Lozano.
-
Feel-Good Recommendations:
- Hermes in "Hadestown" at Walter Kerr Theater: Featuring Daniel Breaker, Merle Dangerous, Haley Kilgore.
- Music Video for "Honey Sweet" from Goddess at Public Theater: Performed by Amber Ammann.
- Buena Vista Social Club Features: Highlighted on Good Morning America and CBS Sunday Morning.
5. Closing Remarks
Timestamp: [End of Transcript]
Matt wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to engage with the podcast on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. He extends gratitude to the audience and looks forward to continuing the broadcast into the next decade.
Notable Quote:
"Have a wonderful Monday, a wonderful week and we'll be back to talk to you tomorrow." – Matt Tamineni
Conclusion
This episode of "Today on Broadway" by BroadwayRadio, hosted by Matt Tamineni, offers a rich blend of personal reflections celebrating nearly a decade of broadcasting, poignant news impacting the theater community, and an exhaustive schedule of upcoming Broadway and Off Broadway productions. With engaging insights and a heartfelt connection to the arts, Matt ensures that both long-time listeners and newcomers are well-informed and excited about the vibrant world of theater.