BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary: Today on Broadway – Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025
BroadwayRadio's latest episode, hosted by Matt Tamanini and Grace Aki, delivers an engaging and comprehensive update on the latest happenings in the Broadway scene. Covering everything from celebrity news to financial insights, the episode provides listeners with valuable information and insider perspectives. Below is a detailed summary of the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.
1. Celebrity News: Broadway Couple Ties the Knot
Matt Tamanini kicks off the episode with surprising news about a Broadway couple's recent marriage:
"A Broadway couple got married that I didn't even know was a couple because it was on social media." [00:09]
The couple in question, Tony nominee Jen Damiano and Broadway star Michael Ziegen, celebrated their marriage over the weekend. They first met during the off-Broadway production of Bob and Carol and Ted and Alice and were last seen together at the Tonys in 2022. Grace Aki expresses enthusiasm over the collaboration and the under-the-radar nature of their relationship:
"I think this is something that a lot of people are going to be very excited about... What a catch. What a find." [01:17]
2. Waitress the Musical to Stream on MAX
Tamanini shares exciting news confirmed by Warner Brothers Discovery:
"Waitress the Musical will begin streaming on MAX on Valentine's Day." [01:38]
The streaming release will feature an exclusive cast, including Sara Bareilles, Drew Gehling, and Dakin Matthews, among others. This move is anticipated to reach a wider audience, allowing fans to enjoy the musical from the comfort of their homes.
3. Gracie Lawrence's Broadway Debut in Just in Time
A significant highlight of the episode is the announcement of Gracie Lawrence making her Broadway debut:
"Gracie Lawrence, one of the members of the popular pop band Lawrence, will be making her Broadway debut opposite Jonathan Groff in the upcoming musical Just in Time." [03:29]
Grace Aki discusses the crossover of Lawrence from the music world to theater, emphasizing the synergy between the two mediums:
"This makes sense... one of those moments where the music world is crossing over the theater world." [03:52]
The musical is set to premiere at the Circle in the Square Theater on March 28, with a planned opening in April 2023. The cast includes notable names such as Emily Bergle, Joe Barbara, and Cesar Samoya.
4. Broadway Weekly Grosses: An Encouraging Outlook
Matt provides an in-depth analysis of the latest Broadway grosses:
"Last week's Broadway grosses... came in at a very solid $32,176,529." [04:06]
Despite a 29% decline from the previous week, the figures surpass the second week of the prior year by nearly $5 million. Wicked, Hamilton, and The Lion King remain top performers, while newer entries like Comedy About Love show impressive ticket prices, averaging $215.61—over $40 higher than second place.
Grace Aki offers insights into the trends, attributing the success of straight plays to the absence of tourists and the influx of local New York adults seeking quality entertainment:
"There's a lot of validity for the fact that a lot of these plays right now are celebrity-led... supporting the aggressive influx of straight play culture." [08:15]
5. Off-Broadway Highlight: My First Ex Husband
Transitioning to Off-Broadway news, Tamanini announces the upcoming show My First Ex Husband, written by and starring Joy Behar:
"It's going to begin performances on January 29th with an opening night of February 6th at the MMAC Theater." [08:48]
The show boasts a rotating cast featuring prominent names such as Judy Gold, Susan Lucci, and Gina Gershon. The diverse lineup promises a dynamic and engaging performance schedule.
6. Gavin Creel's Documentary: Common Denominator
The podcast also touches on the posthumous release of Gavin Creel’s documentary:
"Common Denominator and it is going to have a screening coming up on January 27th and then it'll be available to stream in February." [09:55]
The documentary delves into Creel’s journey with mental health and showcases his performances from the musical Walk on Through, offering fans a heartfelt tribute to his legacy.
7. Klebben Prize Recipients Announced
Celebrating emerging talent, the Klebben Prize recipients for 2025 are revealed:
"Benjamin Velez and Madeline Meyers are the 2025 recipients... Velez for his work with lyrics and Meyers as a librettist." [11:20]
Both recipients will be honored at a special ceremony on February 3rd. The prize, endowed by the Cleven Foundation, includes a substantial monetary award to support their burgeoning careers.
8. Upcoming Production: Masterclass Featuring Karen Ziemba
In closing, Matt shares exciting news about the upcoming production of Masterclass:
"Karen Ziemba is going to be playing Maria Callas... confirmed yesterday via press release." [12:45]
The production, directed by DJ Salisbury, will run from February 4th to 23rd at the Riverside Theater in Vero Beach, Florida. An interview with Ziemba is in the works, promising deeper insights into her role and the production.
9. Closing Remarks and Recommendations
Grace Aki advises listeners to pace themselves with the influx of new shows:
"Try to schedule... try to get in to see other shows before they all start at the same time." [13:04]
Matt reveals his personal plans to maximize his time in New York, aiming to catch multiple performances in a short span:
"I'm packing in basically everything that I've missed so far... trying to see all in Wonderful World, Cult of Love, Eureka Day and Gypsy." [13:35]
The hosts wrap up by encouraging listeners to follow them on social media for more updates and to stay tuned for the next episode.
Notable Quotes:
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Matt Tamanini on Celebrity Marriage:
"Congratulations to them. And I guess I need to pay more attention to people's social lives and social media." [00:09]
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Grace Aki on Gracie Lawrence’s Crossover:
"This is one of those moments where the music world is crossing over the theater world." [03:52]
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Grace Aki on Broadway Trends:
"There's a lot of validity for the fact that a lot of these plays right now are celebrity-led." [08:15]
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Grace Aki on Show Recommendations:
"Try to schedule... try to get in to see other shows before they all start at the same time." [13:04]
Conclusion
The episode of Today on Broadway provides a rich tapestry of current events, financial analytics, and insider news from the Broadway universe. From celebratory announcements to strategic advice on navigating the vibrant theater landscape, Matt Tamanini and Grace Aki ensure that listeners are well-informed and engaged with the latest developments. Whether you're a theater aficionado or a casual observer, this episode offers valuable insights and anticipatory excitement for the future of Broadway.