BroadwayRadio: Today on Broadway – Tuesday, March 11, 2025
BroadwayRadio presents "Today on Broadway," delivering the latest news, insights, and updates from the vibrant world of Broadway. Hosted by Matt Tammini and Grace Ake, this episode dives deep into new show announcements, casting updates, ticketing initiatives, and exciting multimedia content for theater enthusiasts.
1. Upcoming Productions at Studio 54
Gene Smart Stars in "Call Me Izzy"
The episode opens with exciting news about Studio 54, a prominent venue managed by Roundabout Theatre Company. Starting in May, Studio 54 will host a new one-woman play titled "Call Me Izzy".
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Star and Creative Team:
- Gene Smart returns to Broadway after 25 years, marking her first appearance since her Tony-nominated performance in The Man Who Came to Dinner.
- Writer: Jamie Wax
- Director: Sarna Lapine
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Synopsis:
"It is a dark comedic story about one woman in rural Louisiana who has a secret that is both her greatest gift and her only way out. It is a moving tour de force portrait of a woman who resists being silenced by embracing her tenacity, humor, and fiery imagination." (01:06)
Grace Ake expressed her enthusiasm:
"I've loved her since I was a kid because of Designing Women. So this was very exciting to hear about. I love one-person plays, obviously, and I love Jean. So this is a match made in heaven." (02:57)
Additional Insights: Matt Tammini speculated on the timing of the announcement, considering scheduling logistics and potential overlaps with Roundabout's other productions like Hacks. He noted:
"It might be because Roundabout has something that they want to put in that theater over the summer specifically." (03:12)
2. New Broadway Imports from the UK
"Punch" by James Graham
Grace Ake shared news about a new play coming to Broadway from the UK:
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Title: Punch
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Writer: James Graham (known for Ink)
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Based On: Right from Wrong by Jacob Dunn
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Director: Adam Penford
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Plot: "Punch" traces Jacob Dunn's transformative journey through restorative justice after an impulsive act leads to fatal consequences. Following a year-long prison term, Dunn connects with the victim's parents, sparking profound personal change.
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Production History:
- Premiered at Nottingham Playhouse
- Currently running at Young Vic, London
- Scheduled for Broadway this fall (exact dates pending)
Additional Announcement: Manhattan Theater Club revealed an Off-Broadway production titled "The Monsters", written and directed by Ngozi and Yanwu. Set to premiere at the New York City Center in winter 2026, this show follows the success of their previous hit, Good Grief.
"The Queen of Versailles" at St. James Theater
Another highlight was the announcement of The Queen of Versailles relocating to Broadway’s St. James Theater, debuting on October 8 with opening night on November 10. The production stars:
- Kristin Chenoweth
- F. Murray Abraham
- Book by: Lindsey Ferrantino
- Score by: Stephen Schwartz
- Director: Michael Arden
Matt commented on the strategic timing:
"I almost feel like they're planting a flag and being like, this is our season." (07:05)
Grace added her excitement:
"I'm a fan about this documentary for years. I'm really pumped to see whatever the hell is happening with it." (07:05)
3. Casting Updates for Off-Broadway Productions
"Titanique" – New Lead Cast
The podcast revealed that Amber Ardellino will take over the role of Celine Dion in the Off-Broadway production of "Titanique", starting March 21. She replaces Dee Racioli, who has been a long-standing Elphaba in Wicked.
- Supporting Cast Includes:
- Cassidy Pope as Rose
- Max Jenkins as Jack
- Leah Delaria as Ruth
- Andrew Keenan Bolger as Victor Garber
- Lisa Howard as Molly Brown
- Callum Francis as Cal
- Kyle Remar Freeman as the Iceberg
Matt highlighted Ardellino’s impact:
"She certainly will bring a lot of excitement for a demographic that I think would probably really, really like Titanic if they didn't know it already." (08:11)
Grace echoed the positive casting:
"I'm very, very pumped." (09:43)
4. Accessible Ticketing Initiatives
"Boop the Musical" – Affordable Tickets
Boop the Musical has launched new ticketing options to make Broadway more accessible:
- Digital Rush: Available via Telecharge for $45 each.
- In-Person Rush:
- Broadhurst Theater: Starts at 10 AM on performance days.
- Sundays Starting April 13: Tickets for $40, with under-30s eligible for $30.
Matt emphasized the affordability:
"Very cool that Boop is making tickets available at $30, $40, $45 in a variety of different ways." (10:09)
"Good Night and Good Luck" – Digital Lottery
Another show, Good Night and Good Luck, introduced a digital lottery system:
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Lottery Details:
- Runs one day before performances.
- Winners announced at 10 AM and 3 PM.
- Tickets available at $49 each.
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Rush Tickets: Available at the box office on performance day for $49.
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Standing Room: Priced at $69, depending on show sell-out status.
Matt noted the inclusivity:
"You can get two tickets per person and there will also be standing room tickets." (10:09)
5. Multimedia Content and Show Previews
Musical Episode of "Night Court" on NBC
The hosts discussed the upcoming all-musical episode titled "A Little Night Court Music":
- Featured Performers:
- John Larroquette performing "A Boy from the..."
- Melissa Rauch performing "All Rise"
- Richard Kind as a guest star
Grace shared her enthusiasm:
"I absolutely am. How did you know? I also just enjoy the conceit of Night Court." (12:47)
New Content from "Smash" and "Real Women Have Curves"
The episode highlighted new multimedia releases to build excitement for upcoming shows:
- Smash: A recording studio video of "Don't Forget Me" featuring Robin Herder and Caroline Bowman.
- Real Women Have Curves: Music video for "Make It Work," with performances starting April 1.
Matt commented on the promotional efforts:
"Lots of content, lots of videos, lots of things to help us get excited about new shows." (13:15)
6. Closing Remarks
Matt and Grace wrapped up the episode by encouraging listeners to follow BroadwayRadio on social media for the latest updates. They expressed anticipation for upcoming shows and upcoming episodes, ensuring fans stay connected with the ever-evolving Broadway scene.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
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Grace Ake:
"I've loved her since I was a kid because of Designing Women. So this was very exciting to hear about." (02:57)
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Matt Tammini:
"It is a moving tour de force portrait of a woman who resists being silenced by embracing her tenacity, humor, and fiery imagination." (01:06)
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Grace Ake:
"I'm very, very pumped." (09:43)
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Matt Tammini:
"You can get two tickets per person and there will also be standing room tickets." (10:09)
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Grace Ake:
"I absolutely am. How did you know?" (12:47)
Stay Connected:
- Follow BroadwayRadio on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
- Hosts:
- Matt Tammini: Instagram @bww.matt
- Grace Ake: Instagram @gracehockey
Thank you for tuning into "Today on Broadway." Join us tomorrow for more updates and insider insights from the heart of Broadway!