BroadwayRadio: Today on Broadway – Tuesday, March 18, 2025

BroadwayRadio's "Today on Broadway" episode hosted by Matt Tamanini and Grace Aki delves into the latest happenings on and off Broadway. From groundbreaking casting decisions to exciting new musical projects and reviews of recent theatrical experiences, the hosts provide listeners with insightful discussions and updates on the vibrant Broadway scene.

1. All-Female Revival of "Glengarry Glen Ross"

The episode opens with an intriguing update on the revival of David Mamet's acclaimed play, Glengarry Glen Ross. Producers, led by Jeffrey Richards—a longtime collaborator of Mamet—are reportedly working on an all-female cast for the production currently running in previews at the Palace Theater.

Matt Tamanini highlights the shift, noting, “If we're going to do a revival of Glengarry Glen Ross, it should be all women. It should be an all-female cast in that production” (01:50). This creative decision aims to reinterpret the traditionally male-dominated narrative, injecting fresh perspectives into the play's exploration of ambition and desperation in the real estate world.

Grace Aki shares her reservations and curiosity about the all-female casting: “I'm interested in seeing that show prove me different in a way. I'm interested in what that cast would look like” (04:27). The hosts discuss the potential challenges and opportunities this casting choice presents, especially given the play's entrenched themes of machismo.

2. James Taylor-Inspired Musical "Fire and Rain"

Shifting gears, Matt introduces an exciting development in musical theater: a new James Taylor-inspired musical titled Fire and Rain. This project diverges from typical jukebox musicals by boasting a book written by Tracy Letts, the renowned playwright of August: Osage County, and direction by Tony winner David Cromer.

Matt expresses his enthusiasm: “Tracy Letts is writing the book of any musical is interesting to me. But then the fact that it's going to be directed by David Cromer makes that even more exciting” (06:59). The musical promises a unique blend of James Taylor's evocative songwriting with Letts' sharp storytelling and Cromer's dynamic directorial style.

3. Orville Peck Joins "Cabaret" as MC

Another significant casting update involves country music star and actor Orville Peck, who is set to take over the role of the Master of Ceremonies (MC) in the Broadway revival of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club. Notably, Peck will perform without his signature mask for the first time in this role.

Matt provides details: “Orville Peck will take over as the MC and Cabaret on March 30... he will not be wearing a mask when he takes to the stage” (11:00). This decision adds a new layer to Peck's character, potentially offering deeper emotional resonance and character development within the production.

Grace Aki reflects on the significance of this choice: “It just wouldn't happen... If Dolly Parton stopped wearing her wig and she decided to do Gray Gardens, for example” (12:16). The hosts discuss how Peck’s unmasking aligns with the show's themes of persona and authenticity.

4. Hosts' Theatrical Experiences: London Visits

Cirque du Soleil's "Drawn to Life"

Matt shares his recent experience watching Cirque du Soleil's Drawn to Life at Disney Springs: “Drawn to Life is a wonderful, wonderful Cirque show... great show, great theater, really cool acts and everything” (13:24). He highly recommends it to theater enthusiasts seeking a blend of circus artistry and storytelling.

Grace Aki's London Theatre Trip

Grace recounts her visit to London, where she attended several standout productions:

• "Benjamin Button": An original musical adaptation that captivated her with its storytelling and musical composition. Grace praises its originality and emotional impact, stating, “It felt like a totally original musical, and I loved that” (14:38).

• "The Years": A masterful play tracing a French woman's life from 1946 to 2006, intertwined with significant world events. Grace describes it as “incredibly moving” and “fascinating” (14:38).

• "Much Ado About Nothing": Jamie Lloyd Company's production at Royal Drury Lane impressed Grace with its vibrant staging and dynamic performances. She highlights the production’s ability to make Shakespeare feel natural and engaging: “They have these gorgeous, like, lobby spaces and bars and it's just like, the amount of square footage alone. I was like, this is Madison Square Garden” (16:41).

Matt echoes Grace’s sentiments, expressing a desire to see these shows in New York: “I would die for that, because I think they are such incredibly special but very, very different productions” (18:10).

Conclusion

In this episode of Today on Broadway, Matt Tamanini and Grace Aki provide listeners with a comprehensive overview of current Broadway developments, innovative casting choices, and personal theatrical experiences. From the anticipated all-female revival of Glengarry Glen Ross to the unique creation of a James Taylor musical, and Orville Peck's transformative role in Cabaret, the hosts underscore the evolving landscape of Broadway. Their discussions offer valuable insights for theater enthusiasts looking to stay informed about the latest trends and must-see productions.

Notable Quotes

• Matt Tamanini on All-Female Glengarry Glen Ross: “If we're going to do a revival of Glengarry Glen Ross, it should be all women. It should be an all-female cast in that production.” (01:50)

• Grace Aki on Potential Challenges: “I'm interested in what that cast would look like... I am not in a place to laugh right now with how life is going right now for people.” (04:27)

• Matt Tamanini on Fire and Rain: “Tracy Letts is writing the book of any musical is interesting to me... it makes me more excited about it.” (06:59)

• Grace Aki on Orville Peck’s Role: “If Dolly Parton stopped wearing her wig and she decided to do Gray Gardens, for example.” (12:16)

• Matt Tamanini on London Shows: “I would die for that, because I think they are such incredibly special but very, very different productions.” (18:10)

Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth discussions on Broadway's latest happenings on future episodes of "Today on Broadway." Follow BroadwayRadio on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more content.