BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary Episode: Today on Broadway: Thursday, July 10, 2025
Host: Matt Tammanini & Grace Ake
Release Date: July 10, 2025

1. Upcoming Patreon Exclusive Episode

Matt Tammanini kicked off the episode by teasing an exclusive Patreon release featuring a conversation with their friend Kate Ranking. This marks the beginning of an ongoing series where Matt engages with guests about their favorite recent shows. He hinted at the potential future arrival of Kate’s selected show in New York, despite it no longer running. Additionally, Matt and Kate discussed her extensive recent theater travels across multiple continents, promising rich insights for subscribers.

2. Netflix Stars Making Waves in Theater

a. Joe Locke’s West End Debut in "Clarkston"

News Segment Highlights:

• Joe Locke, known for his roles in Heartstopper, Agatha All Along, and Sweeney Todd on Broadway, is set to make his West End debut in the play "Clarkston".

Key Details:

• "Clarkston" is a solo production, previously part of the two one-act shows "Lewiston" and "Clarkston" in New York City.
• The play focuses on Jake’s journey westward to rediscover himself, where he meets Chris, a night shift worker at a rural Costco, leading to an adventurous bond reminiscent of the Lewis and Clark expedition.
• Directed by Jack Scurio, known for Samuel D. Hunter's Grangeville Off-Broadway.
• Co-stars include Rory Malika and Sophie Melville.

Notable Quote:

Matt Tammanini [02:15]: "It's exciting to see these young stars thrive in so many different genres of performance."

b. Luke Newton’s Off-Broadway Venture in "House of McQueen"

News Segment Highlights:

• Luke Newton, famed for his role in Bridgerton, will portray Alexander McQueen in the new Off-Broadway production "House of McQueen".

Key Details:

• The production is set to premiere at The Mansion at Hudson Yards on September 9th, running through November.
• Directed by Sam Helferich.
• Co-star Emily Skinner will play McQueen’s mother.
• The play delves into Alexander McQueen’s career up to his untimely passing in 2010.
• Emphasis on high production value with innovative floor-to-ceiling LED panels designed to shift stage environments.

Discussion Insight: Grace Ake [07:25]: Expressed excitement about Luke Newton’s transition to stage performance, highlighting his dedication to expanding his acting repertoire.

3. The Versatility of Modern Performers

Matt Tammanini and Grace Ake delved into the trend of performers seamlessly transitioning between television, film, and theater. They emphasized the importance of versatility in sustaining a robust career and enriching each medium with diverse talents.

Key Points:

• Performers today often engage in multiple mediums, enhancing their skills and broadening their audience base.
• Success in one area, such as television or film, can bolster theater ticket sales due to increased visibility.
• Both hosts appreciate when performers return to theater after exploring other formats, as it enriches the stage with their enhanced abilities.

Notable Quotes:

Grace Ake [04:53]: "If they are excellent in those spaces, we hope that they are excellent on stage as well."

Matt Tammanini [04:53]: "It's fun to see them have the opportunity to not only perform in the different mediums, but to be really, really good in all of those mediums as well."

4. Expanding Horror in Theater with "Paranormal Activity"

News Segment Highlights:

• A new stage adaptation titled "Paranormal Activity" is set to embark on a US tour before heading to London's West End.
• The show draws inspiration from the popular horror film franchise, aiming to bring horror to live theater audiences.

Key Details:

• US Tour: Scheduled to start this fall with stops in Chicago, Louisiana, Washington D.C., and San Francisco.
• London West End: Beginning December 15th at the Ambassador's Theatre for a 12-week run.
• Creative Team:
  • Directed by Felix Barrett, founder and artistic director of Punch Drunk.
  • Written by Levi Hollowell, known for Gray House, a critically acclaimed horror play.

Discussion Insight: Grace Ake [11:34]: While not traditionally classified strictly as horror, Grace discussed how Paranormal Activity incorporates elements of suspense and thrills, likening it to the atmospheric tension found in Stranger Things.

Notable Quote:

Grace Ake [12:00]: "I think it's going to be really cool and I'm curious to see the reception of it."

5. Off-Broadway Success: "Delaria" Extended Run

News Segment Highlights:

• The Off-Broadway production "Delaria" at the Drury Theatre has been extended through August 8th due to positive reception.

Key Details:

• "Delaria" is a world premiere written by Julia Randall.
• Kiara Aurelia currently stars as Georgia and will depart after this weekend to join Broadway, replacing Sadie Sink.
• She will be succeeded by John Proctor in the role of the villain, offering audiences a chance to see her versatile performances.

Discussion Insight: Grace Ake [14:07]: Highlighted Kiara Aurelia’s rapid transition between roles, showcasing the dynamism of Gen Z actors in the current theater landscape.

6. Cast Update from the Muny’s "Frozen" Production

News Segment Highlights:

• "Frozen" at the Muny faced a sudden cast change due to an injury.

Key Details:

• Mark Saunders, portraying Oaken, was unable to perform.
• John Tartaglia, the Tony-nominated actor and director of the production, stepped in to fill the role.
• Tartaglia is set to continue as Oaken for the remainder of the limited one-week run.

Discussion Insight: Matt Tammanini [14:23]: Expressed enthusiasm about Tartaglia’s involvement, anticipating his energetic portrayal of Oaken.

7. Performance Recommendations

Matt Tammanini concluded the episode by spotlighting two standout performances:

a. "A Wrinkle in Time" at Arena Stage

• Performance Highlight: "Meg Inside Out"
• Performer: Taylor Iman Jones
• Details: Part of the world premiere musical adaptation set to close on July 20th.

b. Marisha Wallace in "Cabaret" on Broadway

• Role: Sally Bowles
• Venue: Kit Kat Club on Broadway
• Opening Date: July 22nd
• Details: Wallace steps into the iconic role, bringing fresh energy to the classic production.

Closing Note: Matt directs listeners to the show notes for video links of these performances, encouraging them to experience the showcased talent firsthand.

8. Final Remarks

The episode wrapped up with a reminder to follow BroadwayRadio on social media platforms and to subscribe via Patreon for full access to exclusive content. Hosts Matt Tammanini and Grace Ake bid farewell to listeners, promising more engaging content in future episodes.

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This summary encapsulates the key discussions and highlights from the July 10, 2025 episode of BroadwayRadio's "Today on Broadway," providing a comprehensive overview for those who missed the live broadcast.