BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary
Episode: Today on Broadway: Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025
Hosts: Matt Tiamineni & Grace Aki
Release Date: January 9, 2025
1. Introduction
The episode kicks off with Matt Tiamineni welcoming listeners to "Today on Broadway" and introduces Grace Aki as the co-host. Grace notes her absence from the previous episode, setting the stage for today's discussions.
2. Spotlight on Henrik Ibsen's Ghosts at Lincoln Center Theater
Matt revisits his discussion from the previous day about the star-studded cast of Lincoln Center Theater's Off Broadway production of Henrik Ibsen's Ghosts. He highlights the involvement of acclaimed actor Billy Crudup.
Matt Tiamineni [00:10]: "...the incredibly star-studded cast of the Lincoln Center Theater Off Broadway production of Henrik Ibsen's Ghosts, led by, amongst others, one of your faves, Billy Crudup."
Grace expresses her excitement for the production, recalling her anticipation upon seeing Crudup perform previously.
Grace Aki [00:26]: "Listen, from when I saw Billy Crudup down at Omar, I said, he's back in the game. He's gonna be in theater sometime soon. And was I wrong, Matt? No, I wasn't."
Matt further elaborates on the talented ensemble, including Lily Rabe, Hamish Linkletter, and others, noting the show's premiere date set for February 13th.
Matt Tiamineni [00:51]: "...begins performances on February 13th."
3. Eureka Day Extends Broadway Run
The hosts discuss the extension of Eureka Day's Broadway run to February 16th, marking its second extension. Matt raises concerns about Amber Gray's availability due to her commitments with Hadestown in London.
Matt Tiamineni [00:51]: "Eureka Day has extended again for a second time...but I do not think she's gonna be able to do the entire extended run."
Grace shares her excitement about the play's success and the strong play season across various theaters.
Grace Aki [02:12]: "...we're really having a really great play season...very excited that this has gotten such a great critical response."
4. Stereophonic Celebrates Broadway Success and Expands Internationally
Matt shifts focus to Stereophonic, which is concluding its Broadway run on February 12th. He announces that the play has recouped its Broadway investment, solidifying its status as a Broadway hit. Future plans include a West End run at London's Duke of York's Theatre in May and a national tour starting in Seattle in October. Additionally, Concord Theatricals has secured worldwide licensing rights, ensuring widespread regional productions in the coming years.
Matt Tiamineni [02:32]: "Another play that has gotten a great critical response and like Eureka Day started off Broadway before coming to Broadway is Stereophonic."
Grace echoes the excitement, contemplating potential film adaptations and lauding the play's cult following.
Grace Aki [04:06]: "...it feels inevitable and it's the right move. I love that there's been an exciting clout or, you know, cult following with this play."
5. Casting Changes in Little Shop of Horrors Off Broadway
The conversation shifts to Off Broadway news, specifically the upcoming final performances of Sherri Renee Scott and Nicholas Christopher in Little Shop of Horrors on February 23rd after nearly four months in their roles. The hosts engage in a fun guessing game about potential future cast members.
Matt Tiamineni [04:49]: "...current Off Broadway Little Shop of Horrors stars Sherri Renee Scott and Nicholas Christopher will play their final performances...on February 23rd."
Grace suggests Leslie Kritzer and Alex Brightman for the roles, drawing parallels to their previous collaborations.
Grace Aki [05:27]: "I want Leslie Kritzer and Alex Brightman."
Matt counters with Chris Fitzgerald and Katrina Link, highlighting their Broadway connections.
Matt Tiamineni [05:32]: "I'll go with Chris Fitzgerald as Seymour and Katrina Link as Audrey."
6. Internet Buzz: The Bokdok Phenomenon and Wicked Characters
Matt introduces a segment about the online trend surrounding the pronunciation of "Bokdok," a term related to their discussion on Wicked. Grace explains the origin of the trend, attributing it to TikTok and the quirky pronunciation by actors in the musical.
Grace Aki [06:24]: "People have really latched onto it on TikTok specifically... it's very funny and silly and hopefully in good taste."
Matt humorously ties this to their opinions on the characters Nessa and Bach from Wicked, hinting at their complex portrayals.
Matt Tiamineni [07:33]: "...people who only know them from the movie might not have seen their Wicked sides."
7. SAG Awards Nominations and Wicked's Achievements
The hosts delve into the recent SAG Award nominations, with a spotlight on Wicked receiving five nominations, including:
- Leading Female Actor: Cynthia Erivo
- Supporting Male Actor: Jonathan Bailey
- Supporting Female Actor: Ariana Grande
- Best Action Performance by a Stunt Ensemble
- Best Cast
Matt also mentions other notable nominations and anticipates the upcoming Oscar nominations.
Matt Tiamineni [07:33]: "Wicked got leading female actor for Cynthia Erivo, supporting male actor for Jonathan Bailey..."
8. Robbie Roselle's Upcoming Cabaret Show at 54 Below
Matt shares exciting news about Robbie Roselle's next cabaret show, Citation Needed, scheduled for May 23rd at 54 Below. The show celebrates Robbie's extensive career with songs and stories spanning nearly 30 years, accompanied by his backing band, Two Drink Minimum.
Matt Tiamineni [09:33]: "...his next cabaret show on May 23rd over at 54 below. This one is called Citation Needed."
Grace enthusiastically endorses the event, urging listeners to secure their tickets promptly.
Grace Aki [10:09]: "Robbie Roselle, King of the cabaret and the 54 below. I'm very excited that this is happening... So make sure that you get your tickets now because they inevitably always sell out."
9. Patreon and Social Media Announcements
Concluding the episode, Matt promotes an upcoming Patreon-exclusive episode titled "Some Like It Pop," which delves into favorite moments from December and highlights from 2020. He encourages listeners to support the podcast by joining the mezzanine tier or higher.
Matt Tiamineni [10:32]: "...make sure that you head over to Patreon and sign up at the mezzanine tier and above."
Both hosts share their social media handles, inviting listeners to follow them on various platforms.
Grace Aki [11:03]: "You can find me at... It's Grace Aki."
Closing Remarks:
Matt wraps up the episode by thanking listeners and wishing them a wonderful Thursday, promising to return the next day with more Broadway insights.
Matt Tiamineni [11:05]: "All right, everybody, have a wonderful Thursday and we'll be back to talk to you tomorrow."
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This episode of BroadwayRadio offers a comprehensive look into current Broadway productions, casting news, award season updates, and upcoming events, making it a must-listen for theater enthusiasts seeking in-depth and engaging Broadway discussions.