BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary: Today on Broadway – Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025
Release Date: January 22, 2025
Introduction
In the latest episode of Today on Broadway, hosts Matt Tamminini and Grace Aki dive into the bustling Broadway scene, discussing exciting casting announcements, upcoming shows, and their personal experiences with beloved actors. The episode skips the usual advertisements and intros, getting straight to the heart of Broadway news and insights.
Dead Outlaw Makes Its Broadway Debut
Matt kicks off the discussion with thrilling news about the Off-Broadway sensation Dead Outlaw transitioning to Broadway. The entire acclaimed Off-Broadway cast is set to reprise their roles at the Longacre Theatre, with performances beginning on April 12.
Key Highlights:
- Returning Cast: Andrew Durant, Jeb Brown, Eddie Cooper, Dashiell Eves, Julian Nettle, Ken Marks, Trent Saunders, Tom Sesma, Emily Fink, and Max Sangerman.
- Creative Team: Directed by David Cromer, with music and lyrics by David Yazbek, Eric Della Pena, and Itamar Moses.
- Tony Contender: Matt remarks, “This just gives it a little bit more momentum… probably one of the front runners for the Tony for Best Musical this year” (00:58).
Grace adds: “Yeah, it's been on the forefront of everyone's conversations in terms of new shows to be looking out for” (02:19). The hosts express excitement about seeing their favorite cast member, Tom Sesma, once again on stage, reminiscing about their shared experience watching Sherlock Carol in 2021.
Erica Henningsen Joins the Bobby Darin Musical
The conversation shifts to the casting news surrounding the upcoming jukebox bio-musical of Bobby Darin, starring Jonathan Groff. Erica Henningsen has been announced to play Sandra Dee, a role previously inhabited by her friend Stephanie Stiles in 2019.
Key Points:
- Casting Dynamics: Erica Henningsen replaces Stephanie Stiles, maintaining a familial and friendly rapport (04:05).
- Husband’s Role: Erica’s husband, Kyle Selig, is returning to Broadway in Old Friends, making spring a vibrant season for the couple.
- Ensemble: The cast includes Michelle Paak, Joe Barbara, Gracie Lawrence, Lance Roberts, Cesar Samoya, Christine Cornish, Julia Grandin, Valeria Yarman, John Tracy Egan, Terry Kelly, Matt Magnuson, Corey Michelle Pitinode, and Larkin Riley.
Grace highlights Erica’s diverse fan base, noting her roles in Mean Girls and Hazbin Hotel, which adds depth and anticipation to the musical’s dynamic cast.
Grace’s Insight: “With the rest of this cast, I think they've rounded out a really good group” (05:27).
Tommy Dorfman Stars in ‘Becoming Eve’
Tommy Dorfman, known for Romeo and Juliet, is set to join the premiere of Becoming Eve at the New York Theater Workshop. The play, based on Abby Shava Stein’s memoir and directed by Tyne Raffaelli, explores themes of identity and tradition within a Hasidic rabbinical family.
Details:
- Premiere Date: March 19th.
- Plot Summary: The story revolves around three rabbis attempting to save a family caught between orthodoxy and modernity, focusing on Shava, a trans woman (07:15).
- Cast Connection: Grace mentions seeing Tommy in Romeo and Juliet, praising his performance versatility.
Grace expresses excitement about expanding their knowledge of Dorfman’s talents beyond her established presence in pop culture and fashion.
Grace’s Comment: “I am my mother's daughter and I want to see him spit on me” (05:34), showcasing her enthusiasm for supporting talented actors in diverse roles.
Keke Palmer to Star in Gypsy Revival Directed by Debbie Allen
A major highlight of the episode is the revelation that Keke Palmer is set to star in a Broadway revival of Gypsy, directed by the legendary Debbie Allen. This casting confirms months of speculation and brings a fresh dynamic to the classic musical.
Key Highlights:
- Role Details: Palmer will portray a character inspired by Muhammad Ali’s first wife, as part of a production titled Fetch Clay Make Man (12:30).
- Director: Debbie Allen, renowned for her work in theater and television, brings her unique vision to the revival.
- Hosts' Excitement: Matt and Grace gush over Palmer’s growth as a performer and her return to Broadway, highlighting her previous role in Joyful Noise and her impactful presence in films like One of Them Days.
Matt shares: “She was already a star, but like a huge, massive megastar” (12:00).
Grace adds her anticipation for Palmer’s Broadway debut, emphasizing her star power and the potential success of the production.
Grace’s Enthusiasm: “I am preemptively a fan. I've been thrilled at every single casting turn” (07:45).
Show Recommendations: Death Becomes Her & The Great Gatsby
The hosts wrap up the episode with personalized show recommendations:
-
Death Becomes Her Performance Clip:
- Featuring: Jennifer Simard and Chris Sieber.
- Platform: Today Show.
- Insight: Matt provides a nuanced view, appreciating the performance despite not deeming the show a favorite.
- Quote: “They both sound wonderful” (15:00).
-
The Great Gatsby Musical Preview:
- Stars: Ryan McCarten and Sarah Hyland performing “My Green Light” at the New York City Public Library.
- Audience Reaction: Enthusiastic feedback on social media, with Eva Noblezada giving a standing ovation.
- Discussion: Grace and Matt discuss the strategic casting of Hyland and McCarten, noting the blend of theater veterans with popular TV stars to attract diverse audiences.
Matt’s Observation: “Sarah is rocking some very high heels… that'll be fun to play with for stage pictures on Broadway” (16:00).
Closing Remarks
The episode concludes with Matt and Grace encouraging listeners to follow BroadwayRadio on social media for the latest updates. They express their gratitude for the listeners and tease upcoming episodes, promising more in-depth Broadway discussions.
Final Words:
- Matt: “Have a wonderful Wednesday and we'll be back to talk to you tomorrow.”
- Grace: Available on Instagram @itsGraceAki.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Matt Tamminini (00:58): “This just gives it a little bit more momentum… probably one of the front runners for the Tony for Best Musical this year.”
- Grace Aki (02:19): “Yeah, it's been on the forefront of everyone's conversations in terms of new shows to be looking out for.”
- Grace Aki (05:34): “I am my mother's daughter and I want to see him spit on me.”
- Matt Tamminini (12:00): “She was already a star, but like a huge, massive megastar.”
- Matt Tamminini (15:00): “They both sound wonderful.”
Follow BroadwayRadio
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- Instagram: @bwmattgrace and @itsGraceAki
This episode of Today on Broadway offers a comprehensive look into current Broadway happenings, from exciting new shows and casting announcements to personal anecdotes and show recommendations. Whether you're a seasoned theatergoer or a casual fan, Matt and Grace provide valuable insights that keep you connected to Broadway's vibrant scene.