BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary
Episode: Today on Broadway – Wednesday, June 18, 2025
Host: Matt Tammanini
Introduction
In this episode of Today on Broadway, host Matt Tammanini delivers an insightful update on the latest happenings in the Broadway scene. Despite co-host Grace being unavailable due to a major creator event in New York City, Matt seamlessly navigates through the day's news, upcoming events, and special recommendations for theater enthusiasts.
Broadway News
Closing of "Real Women Have Curves"
Matt opens the discussion by announcing the closure of the Broadway show Real Women Have Curves. The production is set to perform its final show on Sunday, June 19, at the James Earl Jones Theatre.
“If you have not seen this one, I highly recommend that you do sometime between now and a week from Sunday.”
[02:45] Matt Tammanini
Key Details:
- Total Performances: 104 (including 73 regular performances)
- Tony Nominations: Received two nominations but did not win, notably missing out on Best Musical.
- Future Prospects: While a national tour hasn't been announced, there is optimism for regional productions in the future.
- Music: The Tony-nominated score by Joy Huerta and Benjamin Velez is praised for its catchy tunes and strong character opportunities.
Post-Tony Awards Broadway Performance
The episode delves into the financial impact following the Tony Awards:
- Number of Shows Running: Dropped from 40 to 38 due to the closures of Othello and Goodnight, Good Luck.
- Gross Revenue: Decreased by 14%, amounting to over $6.5 million, bringing the total to $39,204,872.
- Attendance: Only a 5% decline, totaling 313,343 attendees.
- Average Ticket Price: Fell by 10%, now averaging $125.12.
Top Grossing Shows Last Week:
- Wicked – $2,341,054
- Glengarry Glen Ross – $2,270,000
- The Lion King – $2,090,000
- Hamilton – $2,060,000
Notable Highlights:
- Sunset Boulevard achieved its best weekly gross on Broadway at $1,665,762.
- The Picture of Dorian Gray also saw a significant increase, grossing $1.5 million.
“All shows that had great nights at the Tonys, either in terms of awards or performances, also had their highest grosses of their runs on Broadway.”
[07:50] Matt Tammanini
Struggling Shows
Conversely, some shows did not benefit from the Tony buzz:
- Real Women Have Curves and Dead Outlaw experienced notable declines.
- Operation Mincemeat continues to perform steadily despite not receiving a post-Tony boost.
Matt emphasizes the importance of sustained support and highlights the resilience of popular shows despite the competitive landscape.
Upcoming Events
27th Annual Broadway Barks
Scheduled for Saturday, July 12th, at Shubert Alley, the event is a beloved tradition combining Broadway flair with a philanthropic cause.
- Hosts: Bernadette Peters and Brian Beth Level, both stars of Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends on Broadway.
- Features:
- Adoption of dogs from NYC area rescue groups.
- Appearances by Broadway performers, including recent Tony winner Natalie Venetia Bell, Erica Henningsen, Andy Karl, Jessica Vosk, and more.
- Schedule:
- 3:00 PM: Event kick-off
- 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Meet and greet with Broadway stars
“It is open to the public and it's free and it features adoptable dogs from New York City area adoption agencies and rescue groups.”
[09:30] Matt Tammanini
Invitation-Only Industry Readings
Two exclusive readings are set to take place on June 23rd:
-
Uncle Vodka
- Description: A play by McAdoo Greer and Rebecca Reynolds, exploring themes similar to Uncle Vanya.
- Cast: Includes Craig Bierko, Hannah Cruz, Carson Elrod, and others.
- Director: Karen Carpenter
-
The Emily Dickinson Musical
- Description: A new musical featuring a book and direction by Makena Reynolds, with music by Teigen Reynolds and J.T. Kaufman.
- Cast: Olivia Kaufman, Emma Pittman, Olivia Puckett, and more.
“Both of these readings will be happening on June 23rd next Monday and finally, let's wrap up with a few recommendations.”
[12:00] Matt Tammanini
Recommendations
Little Shop of Horrors
Matt shares exciting updates for fans of Little Shop of Horrors, highlighting recent performances and extended runs.
- Alums Joy Woods and Darren Criss performed "Suddenly Seymour" at "An Evening with Darren Criss" at the 92nd Street Y.
- Current Production: Elizabeth Gillis extends her run, co-starring with Graham Phillips from Thirteen the Musical on Broadway.
- Featured Performance: Gillis sings "Somewhere That's Green," offering fans a glimpse of the Off-Broadway magic.
“Joy Woods and Darren Criss sang the song 'Suddenly Seymour' at An Evening with Darren Criss at the 92nd Street.”
[14:30] Matt Tammanini
Conclusion
Matt Tammanini wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to follow Today on Broadway on social media and to support the podcast through Patreon. He emphasizes the vibrant and ever-evolving nature of Broadway, urging theater lovers to stay engaged and participate in upcoming events.
“Have a wonderful Wednesday and we'll be back to talk to you tomorrow.”
[15:55] Matt Tammanini
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This episode offers a comprehensive overview of the current Broadway landscape, blending financial insights with community events and personal recommendations, making it a valuable resource for theater aficionados everywhere.