BroadwayRadio Episode Summary: Today on Broadway – Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Release Date: March 25, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Today on Broadway, hosts Matt Tamnini and Grace delve into the latest happenings in the Broadway scene. From critical reviews of high-profile productions to exciting news about upcoming shows, they provide listeners with a comprehensive overview of what's trending in the Broadway community.

Broadway Revival of Othello

Production Details

Matt begins the discussion by focusing on the latest revival of Shakespeare's Othello, currently playing at the Ethel Barrymore Theater. This production is directed by Kenny Leon and boasts a star-studded cast including:

• Denzel Washington as Othello
• Jake Gyllenhaal as Iago
• Molly Osborne as Desdemona
• Neil Bledsoe, Andrew Burnap, Julie Kierda, Jean Gillette, Rob Heaps, Ezra Knight, Christina Sajuz, Kimber, Elaine Sprawl, and more.

The revival is scheduled to run through Tony Sunday on June 8th.

Critical Reception

Despite the high expectations, the revival has received a mixed to negative reception from critics. As Matt recounts, he drove an hour and a half north of Orlando to see the national tour of Hadestown, and by the time he returned, reviews for Othello had yet to all be published. Up to the recording time, out of 19 reviews:

• 2 were positive
• 14 were mixed
• 3 were negative, including a scathing review by Johnny Oleksinski of the New York Post, who criticized the production's high ticket prices and overall execution.

Matt cites Jesse Green from The New York Times, who stated:

"[...] the production's blunt force more and more, I grasped its aura and aims less and less." [02:45]

This sentiment reflects a general consensus that the revival lacks a clear artistic vision despite its commercial success.

Brittany Samuel for Broadway News offered a more nuanced view:

"This Othello is still a once in a lifetime experience. Be it for this towering cast or its relatability to this current social moment. The depth is all there, but this production simply does not live up to its performers." [03:30]

Conversely, Roma Torrey from New York Stage Review provided a positive outlook:

"The tale of Othello is as old as time, but it's the timing and the telling that elevates this ancient classic. Thanks to Kenny Leon, the telling is first class." [04:50]

Despite a standout performance by Denzel Washington, Matt expresses disappointment, noting the high ticket prices (over $900) and the lukewarm critical reception, leading him to forego attending the show himself.

Grace adds perspective on ticket pricing, comparing it to other high-demand performances like Hamilton and Beyoncé’s tours, suggesting that while expensive, such prices are not unprecedented in the live entertainment industry.

Extended Run of Operation Mincemeat

Shifting focus, Matt shares encouraging news about the Broadway production of Operation Mincemeat. Originally slated for a summer run, the show has secured a third extension, now scheduled to perform at the John Golden Theater until February 15th, 2026. This extension highlights the show's strong performance and audience interest, affirming its success despite earlier mixed reviews.

Upcoming Broadway Productions

Noel Coward's Private Lives

Matt and Grace discuss the upcoming Broadway production of Noel Coward’s classic comedy Private Lives, set to premiere in the fall of 2026. Although details about the cast and director remain under wraps, the production is produced by Jeffrey Richards and others. The play centers on a divorced couple who unexpectedly reunite while staying at a hotel with adjoining balconies.

Grace muses on potential casting choices:

"I feel like you can kind of throw anybody, any [...] Anybody in that. Funny." [08:48]

Matt suggests pairing Kobe with Taryn, noting their previous experience and chemistry, which Grace agrees would be an excellent fit.

Delay in Floyd Collins Opening

The episode also covers a minor setback for the production of Floyd Collins, which has been postponed by one day. Originally scheduled to begin performances on Thursday, it will now open on Friday. While no specific reason was provided, Matt reassures listeners that such delays are typically due to minor rehearsal issues and do not indicate larger problems with the show.

Spotlight on Regional Theaters

New York City Center's Wonderful Town

A significant highlight for the spring season is New York City Center's production of Wonderful Town, starring:

• Anika Noni Rose as Ruth
• Aisha Jackson as Eileen
• Itai Benson, Alison Blackwell, DeWitt Fleming Jr., Jesse Hooker Bailey, Javier Munoz, Fergie Philippe, John Rapson, Danielle Torres, and Jimmy Ray Bennett.

Set to begin performances on April 30th, this production boasts a talented ensemble, promising a vibrant and memorable experience for audiences.

Grace expresses excitement about the cast:

"The second I saw John Rapson was in this, I was like, okay, so it's gonna be good. Yeah, I'm. I'm obsessed with this cast." [11:42]

Regional Theater Updates: Paper Mill Playhouse and Goodspeed Musicals

Matt updates listeners on the upcoming seasons of two prominent regional theaters:

• Paper Mill Playhouse announces a 2025-2026 season featuring five musicals:

  • Bull Durham
  • Disney's Frozen
  • Come From Away
  • 1776
  • West Side Story

  Bull Durham will premiere in October 2025, while 1776 will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with an April 2026 run.

• Goodspeed Musicals in Chester, Connecticut, introduces two new shows:

  • About Time: A musical review of Maltby and Shire songs, continuing their acclaimed trilogy.
  • Emusical: A comedic take on Australia’s Great Emu War, premiering on October 3rd.

Matt shares his enthusiasm for these additions, particularly highlighting Frozen and Bull Durham as exciting offerings for the season.

Recommendation: Hadestown National Tour

Matt offers a personal recommendation for the non-equity national tour of Hadestown. Having seen the show ten times, he praises its enduring appeal despite variations in production elements like the absence of lifts and revolving stages. He emphasizes that the show's strong material allows for flexibility in staging, making it accessible for regional, community, and academic performances.

Notably, Matt commends the portrayal of Hermes by Jaylen C. Crump, appreciating the non-gender-specific references:

"They didn't use the gender-specific descriptions, which was a very [...] conscious thing, which I thought worked naturally." [14:20]

This inclusive casting approach, Matt believes, enriches the production without compromising the original narrative.

Closing Remarks

The episode wraps up with Matt and Grace expressing their excitement for the upcoming Broadway offerings and encouraging listeners to stay engaged with the vibrant Broadway community. They invite fans to follow them on social media for more updates and discussions.

Notable Quotes

• Matt Tamnini on Othello reviews:

  "I grasped its aura and aims less and less." [02:45]

• Brittany Samuel on the revival's depth:

  "The depth is all there, but this production simply does not live up to its performers." [03:30]

• Roma Torrey praising Othello:

  "The telling is first class." [04:50]

• Grace on casting versatility for Private Lives:

  "I feel like you can kind of throw anybody, any [...] Anybody in that. Funny." [08:48]

Conclusion

Today's episode of Today on Broadway offers a thorough exploration of current Broadway productions, critical receptions, and exciting future projects. Matt and Grace provide insightful commentary, making it a valuable listen for Broadway enthusiasts seeking to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the theater world.

For more updates and detailed show information, listeners are encouraged to follow BroadwayRadio on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.