BroadwayRadio Presents: Today on Broadway - Thursday, January 23, 2025
Hosts: Matt Tamminini and Grace Hockey
Release Date: January 23, 2025
Podcast Description: Broadway's Premier Podcasts
1. Historic Casting Change in Wicked
Matt Tamminini kicked off the episode with monumental news regarding the beloved Broadway musical Wicked. On January 23, 2025, it was announced that Ali Trim will assume the role of Glinda starting March 4th. Ali has been a standby for the past two years, and her promotion is a celebrated step forward. However, the standout announcement was Lyncia Cabetti taking over as Elphaba, marking her as the first Black actress to fully embody the role on Broadway.
"This is not only her Broadway debut, but obviously making history as well, on the heels of Cynthia Erivo playing the role in the film...it's never too late to do the right thing."
— Matt Tamminini [00:24]
Grace Hockey expressed her excitement and the significance of this casting decision, especially in the wake of Cynthia Erivo's portrayal in the film adaptation.
"This is a really exciting casting just in general because both of those actors are fantastic. Everything that I've seen shared today is about how people are so excited to see her."
— Grace Hockey [01:57]
The hosts reflected on the 21-year journey it took for this milestone to be achieved on Broadway, emphasizing the importance of representation and the positive reception anticipated from fans.
2. Justin Cooley Takes the Stage in Kimberly Akimbo
The next highlight was the casting news for the touring production of Kimberly Akimbo. Tony nominee Justin Cooley will be stepping into the role of Seth from February 7th through March 17th, performing in cities including Las Vegas, Omaha, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, and Detroit.
"He is stepping into the role of Seth from February 7th through March 17th...It's not a bad gig to go from being opposite Victoria Clark to Carolee Carmelo in this show."
— Matt Tamminini [03:02]
Grace Hockey lauded Justin's talent and his potential impact on the tour, noting his nuanced performances and the opportunity for broader audiences to experience his Tony-nominated skills.
"He's so good, he's so nuanced. He's a great scene partner. So I'm excited that audiences across the country... will get to see his Tony nominated performance on the road."
— Grace Hockey [05:27]
3. Broadway Box Office Performance
Matt Tamminini provided an in-depth analysis of the latest Broadway box office figures. Despite one show closing, the overall grosses increased by $1.2 million, totaling $33,372,160. Attendance saw a minor dip of approximately 3,500, settling at $250,806, while the average ticket price rose to compensate for the reduced turnout.
Top Performers:
- Wicked: $2.6 million
- Hamilton: $1.9 million
- Gypsy: $1.89 million
- The Great Gatsby: $1.86 million
- The Lion King: $1.75 million
- Sunset Boulevard: $1.6 million (largest gross increase due to Nicole Scherzinger's return)
A surprising standout was Maybe Happy Ending, which grossed over $890,000, defying initial skepticism about its potential audience reach.
"If you would have told me that it would be doing that when the show opened, I would have been flabbergasted because I wasn't sure if that show was going to find an audience and it certainly has."
— Matt Tamminini [05:03]
Grace Hockey expressed her enthusiasm for Maybe Happy Ending, highlighting its unexpected success and potential momentum heading into the Tony Awards season.
"It's a four person show. It's an original musical. On paper, it's not likely to do well on paper, but thank God because it's a great piece."
— Grace Hockey [08:05]
4. Gypsy Spotlight: Danny Burstein's Heartfelt Tribute
In a touching segment, Matt Tamminini highlighted a recent interview with Danny Burstein from Broadway.com. Burstein shared the sentimental gesture of customizing his dressing room in Gypsy to honor his late wife, Rebecca Luker, who had graced Broadway for over two years.
"I'm getting goosebumps before I even say it...I have the dressing room where my late wife had been...I have a picture of her in that room...as a reminder of not only our relationship."
— Danny Burstein (as quoted by Matt Tamminini) [08:48]
This personal touch underscores the deep emotional connections and memories that actors carry with them, adding a layer of poignancy to their performances.
5. Upcoming Productions: Schmigadoon and The Last Five Years Revival
Matt and Grace delved into recommendations for upcoming Broadway productions, starting with a press preview rehearsal for the Kennedy Center's Schmigadoon!. Featuring performances by Alex and Mackenzie Kurtz, the musical promises a delightful blend of classic tunes and comedic elements.
"Schmigadoon looks so much fun...I think it might just work even better for me because I know people loved it on Apple, but... on stage, the gags and the jokes make a little bit more sense."
— Matt Tamminini [09:48]
Grace Hockey shared her excitement for the limited run, anticipating strong ticket sales and positive audience reception.
"It's so surprising. Like, it's only running through February 9th, so I feel like if it's not already sold out... it's going to be pretty well done."
— Grace Hockey [11:07]
The conversation then shifted to the upcoming Broadway revival of The Last Five Years, featuring Nick Jonas and Adrian Warren. While Matt expressed reservations about Jonas's fit for the role, citing vocal concerns and personal disagreements, he praised Warren's performance.
"Adrian Warren is lovely and charming and sounds great... I love Adrian. I love this show."
— Matt Tamminini [12:07]
Grace Hockey noted that they had extensively covered this topic, affirming the show's buzz and anticipation among fans.
"I feel like we've really covered him. The mine was going to be the Schmigadoon, so thank you for mentioning it."
— Grace Hockey [13:26]
6. Closing Remarks
Matt Tamminini wrapped up the episode by encouraging listeners to follow BroadwayRadio on social media platforms and teased upcoming content.
"Thanks for listening to Today on Broadway. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at Broadway Radio... Have a wonderful Thursday."
— Matt Tamminini [13:31]
Grace Hockey directed listeners to her social profiles, concluding the episode on a friendly note.
"You can find me at... It's Grace Hockey."
— Grace Hockey [13:39]
Key Takeaways:
- Wicked marks a historic moment with Lyncia Cabetti as the first Black Elphaba on Broadway.
- Justin Cooley is set to elevate Kimberly Akimbo on its national tour.
- Broadway continues to thrive financially, with shows like Maybe Happy Ending outperforming expectations.
- Personal stories, such as Danny Burstein's tribute to his late wife, add depth to Broadway narratives.
- Exciting new productions like Schmigadoon! and the revival of The Last Five Years are generating buzz despite mixed casting opinions.
For those passionate about Broadway, this episode of Today on Broadway offers a comprehensive glimpse into current trends, casting milestones, and upcoming theatrical delights shaping the vibrant landscape of New York's theater scene.