Today on Broadway: Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025 – Detailed Summary

Hosted by Matt Tamminini and Grace Ake from BroadwayRadio, "Today on Broadway" delivers comprehensive updates and engaging discussions about the latest happenings in the Broadway community.

1. Upcoming Interview with Andrew Barth Feldman

Timestamp: [00:10 - 02:22]

Matt Tamminini kicks off the episode by highlighting an exclusive upcoming interview conducted by Grace Ake with Andrew Barth Feldman, a noteworthy emerging star in theater. Grace reveals, “I got to chat with Andrew Barth Feldman... you're gonna hear all about that” [00:20]. The interview focuses on Feldman's latest project, “We Had a World,” directed by Trip Coleman. This production is set to premiere at the New York City Center Stage, a more intimate venue with a 300-seat capacity. Grace expresses her excitement about discussing the project and promises listeners an in-depth conversation in the following week’s episode.

2. Miscast 25 Honors Sherryl Lee Ralph

Timestamp: [00:44 - 02:49]

The hosts delve into the details of Miscast 25, an annual event that recognizes outstanding talent in the Broadway community. Matt announces, “Miscast 25 will honor the absolute icon of icons, Sheryl Lee Ralph” [00:44]. The event is scheduled to take place at the Hammerstein Ballroom on April 7th, with a live stream on April 21st. Alongside Ralph, the initial lineup of performers includes prominent names such as Annaleigh Ashford, Andrew Rannells, Nicole Scherzinger, and more, with additional performers to be announced closer to the date.

Grace adds her enthusiasm, stating, “I love that they have this dedicated event at the Hammerstein Ballroom” [02:22]. She also highlights the event’s importance in shaping Tony nominations, emphasizing its dual role in connecting with both the public and industry voters.

3. The Role of Miscast in Tony Campaigning

Timestamp: [02:22 - 04:49]

Matt and Grace discuss how Miscast serves as a pivotal platform for Tony Awards campaigning. Matt remarks, “Showing up at Miscast... there's a lot of very important people in that room” [03:46], underscoring the event's significance in networking and visibility. Grace elaborates on the strategic aspects, explaining, “You have to be the people's princess... and talk to industry folks” [03:46]. They agree that participating in Miscast allows actors to engage with both the general audience and key decision-makers, making it an essential component of a successful Tony campaign.

4. What's On Stage Awards in London

Timestamp: [04:49 - 07:32]

Shifting focus internationally, Matt reviews the 25th annual What's On Stage Awards from London, noting their growing prestige in the theater world. He mentions several winners, including Imelda Staunton for Best Performer in a Musical for her role in "Hello, Dolly" and Melanie Laboure for Best Supporting Performer in "Hadestown" [04:49]. Additionally, "Mean Girls" triumphs as Best New Musical, and "Starlight Express" wins Best Musical Revival [06:00].

Grace expresses optimism about potential Broadway transfers, specifically mentioning "Spirited Away" and "My Neighbor Totoro." She hopes these productions garner interest from American audiences, enhancing cross-Atlantic theater collaborations [07:32].

5. Hadestown Casting Update: Patrick Page Injury

Timestamp: [08:05 - 09:34]

Matt provides an update on the London production of "Hadestown," informing listeners that Patrick Page, who plays Hades, has sustained an injury and will be out of the show for at least a week. In his absence, Philip Boykin will step into the role. Matt reassures fans, saying, “Philip Boykin is incredible. You'll love him as well” [09:31]. Page is optimistic about his return, aiming to be back in time for the scheduled filming on February 25th [08:22]. Grace empathizes with Matt’s concern, highlighting the challenges actors face when unexpected changes occur [08:19].

6. The Outsiders on Broadway Casting Changes

Timestamp: [09:31 - 10:40]

The conversation shifts to casting developments in "The Outsiders" on Broadway. Matt announces that Alex Joseph Grayson will replace Joshua Boone in the role of Dallas Winston. Grayson is noted for his performances in "Parade," "Into the Woods," "Girl from the North Country," "A Bronx Tale," and "Titanic" at Encores [09:31]. Matt praises Grayson’s talent, stating, “In everything I've seen him in, he's been great” [10:37]. Grace concurs, expressing confidence in Grayson’s ability to embody the character effectively [10:40].

7. Playwrights Horizons Extends 'The Antiquities' Run

Timestamp: [10:40 - 12:00]

Matt shares exciting news about the extension of Jordan Harrison's "The Antiquities" at Playwrights Horizons. Originally set to close on February 23rd, the Off Broadway run will now continue through March 2nd [10:40]. This decision comes as a co-production with the Vineyard Theater and the Goodman Theater in Chicago. The play, co-directed by David Cromer and Caitlin Sullivan, delves into a fictional museum’s efforts to resurrect a lost civilization, exploring fundamental questions about humanity [11:30]. Grace adds, “I've heard great things about this one,” highlighting the play’s critical acclaim and encouraging more audience members to experience the extended run [11:45].

8. Chita Rivera Awards 2025 Announcement

Timestamp: [12:00 - 13:00]

The hosts turn their attention to the upcoming Chita Rivera Awards, an event that honors excellence in dance and choreography in Broadway productions. Nominations will be revealed on April 29th, with the ceremony scheduled for May 19th at the NYU Skirball Center [12:00]. Matt announces that Ben Vereen will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his enduring contributions to theater dance [12:00]. Both Matt and Grace express their excitement about celebrating Vereen’s legacy and the event’s role in spotlighting outstanding talent in the industry [13:00].

9. TikTok Buzz: Little Shop of Horrors Birthday Jam

Timestamp: [13:25 - 14:35]

Concluding the episode on a high note, Matt shares a viral TikTok video featuring Melissa Victor from "Little Shop of Horrors" and current Audrey Sheri Renee Scott celebrating Sheri’s birthday. In the video, they spontaneously perform “My Strongest Suit” from "Aida," creating an uplifting and joyful moment for fans [13:25]. Matt reflects on the performance, mentioning a recent rendition he saw on a cruise and expressing enthusiasm for the cast’s vibrant interactions [13:33]. Grace echoes his excitement, noting how such moments strengthen the Broadway community by sharing behind-the-scenes joy and camaraderie [13:25].

Notable Quotes:

• Grace Ake [00:20]: "It's really cool... I loved getting to talk to him about it."

• Matt Tamminini [00:44]: "Miscast 25 will honor the absolute icon of icons, Sheryl Lee Ralph."

• Matt Tamminini [03:46]: "Showing up at Miscast... there's a lot of very important people in that room."

• Grace Ake [03:46]: "You have to be the people's princess... and talk to industry folks."

• Matt Tamminini [04:49]: "Imelda Staunton for Best Performer in a Musical... Mean Girls won Best New Musical."

• Matt Tamminini [08:16]: "Philip Boykin is incredible. You'll love him as well."

• Matt Tamminini [09:31]: "In everything I've seen him in, he's been great."

• Matt Tamminini [12:00]: "Ben Vereen will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award."

• Matt Tamminini [13:25]: "It was so fun to see 'My Strongest Suit' and then to get this on Sunday."

Conclusion:

In this episode of "Today on Broadway," Matt Tamminini and Grace Ake offer listeners a rich tapestry of Broadway news, from exclusive interviews and award recognitions to casting updates and viral social media moments. Whether you're a seasoned theatergoer or new to the Broadway scene, this episode provides valuable insights and engaging discussions that keep you connected to the vibrant world of theater.