Today on Broadway: Wednesday, March 12, 2025
BroadwayRadio
Hosts: Matt Tamminini & Grace Aki

1. Celebrating Bob Martin's Broadway Returns

Matt Tamminini kicks off the episode by celebrating a significant milestone for Bob Martin, a distinguished book writer in the Broadway community. Martin is set to premiere two new shows, Boop and Smash, marking his return to Broadway after a notable hiatus. Matt highlights the personal connection between himself and Grace, mentioning, "[00:35]...Grace, it is as we are recording, a very big day on Broadway, especially though if your name is Bob Martin..." Grace confirms their longstanding relationship, reminiscing, "[01:10]...I went to prom with him."

2. Major Breakthrough: Atlantic Theater Company and IATSE Strike Resolution

A pivotal moment discussed is the tentative agreement between the Atlantic Theater Company and the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), announced on Monday night. This agreement marks the first collaboration between IATSE and a solely Off Broadway, non-profit theater company.

Key Highlights:

• End of Strike: The agreement aims to conclude the work stoppage that halted all shows at the Atlantic Theater Company since January.
• Compensation Enhancements: The joint statement emphasized "significant compensation increases, including comprehensive benefits" to acknowledge the production crew's vital role.
• Future Implications: Matt pondered the potential impacts on ticket prices and the number of shows, stating, "[03:57]...It is complicated and I hope we were able to thread that needle as a community moving forward."

Grace added her perspective on the broader live entertainment landscape, noting concerns about ticket availability and patronage fluctuations, especially compared to events like WWE's Monday Night Raw, which continue to sell out arenas. She expressed curiosity about how these dynamics might influence costs and audience engagement in the theater sector.

3. Off Broadway Spotlight: New Show Reviews

A. Ghosts by Mark O’Rowe at Lincoln Center

Ghosts, a new adaptation of Henrik Ibsen's classic, officially opened at Lincoln Center. Directed by Jack O'Brien, the production boasts a stellar cast, including Ella Beatty and Billy Crudup.

• Jesse Green, The New York Times ([05:10]): Described the play as "distasteful though that is, it's a good drama," appreciating its provocative nature despite controversial themes like venereal disease and euthanasia.

• Sarah Holdren, Vulture ([07:45]): Offered a mixed review, stating, "O'Brien's new attempt doesn't exactly haunt or horrify either," critiquing the production for feeling "stuck between times and impulses."

Grace acknowledged the show's swift sell-out and extended runs due to its high-profile cast, expressing hope to see it firsthand despite the mixed critical reception.

B. All Nighter by Natalie Margolin at MCC

All Nighter is a fresh play by Natalie Margolin, directed by Jackie Bradley, featuring talents like Julia Lester and Aliyah Chanel Scott. Running for a limited 12-week engagement, the show has garnered positive reviews.

• Alison Consendine, New York Theatre Guide ([08:28]): Praised the play for capturing "the frenetic energy of a group of college women," calling it potentially "the best portrayal of college girls on stage ever."

• Andrew Martini, Theater Lee: Highlighted the emotional depth, stating, "At its best, All Nighter is a touching piece of female friendship."

Audience Reception: Grace shared her personal experience attending the show, noting the balance between comedy and serious themes like mental illness and alcohol abuse. She observed, "[10:01]...there's some really heavy themes at play in this moment," commending the authentic writing and powerful performances.

C. Jonathan Larson Project at Orpheum Theater

The Jonathan Larson Project, conceived by Jennifer Ashley Tepper and directed by John Simpkins, features a dynamic cast including Adam Chandler and Lauren Marcus.

• Jackson McHenry, Vulture ([11:14]): Offered a mixed review, questioning whether the show's intent is to educate about Larson or simply celebrate his work, noting, "Are we here to learn more about Larson or simply to laud him?"

• Joey Simmons, Theaterly: Emphasized the project's joy in uncovering Larson's "most bizarre and ambitious works," despite some songs being "heavy-handed."

Grace reminisced about her 2018 experience with Larson's works, expressing ongoing enthusiasm for his music and hoping to attend the production in downtown.

4. Broadway Box Office Insights

The hosts delved into the latest Broadway grosses, highlighting significant trends and records:

• Overall Performance:

  • Gross Revenue: $28,328,355 (a 5% increase from the previous week)
  • Attendance: 236,448 patrons
  • Average Ticket Price: $119.81 (up by 1%)

• Top Grossing Shows:

  • Othello: $2,818,297 (highest ever for a play, surpassing Harry Potter and the Cursed Child)
  • Hamilton: $2,700,000
  • Wicked: $2,440,000
  • The Lion King: $1,500,000
  • The Outsiders: $1,300,000

• Milestone Highlights:

  • Othello achieved full-capacity sales, setting a new record.
  • The Outsiders slightly exceeded full capacity at 101%.

Matt remarked on the burgeoning number of shows surpassing the $2 million mark, anticipating ongoing competition among star-studded productions to top the charts. Grace echoed his excitement, noting the unprecedented number of high-profile titles and the potential for new records.

5. Announcements and Recommendations

A. One Shubert Alley Expansion

BroadwayRadio announced the opening of a second One Shubert Alley merchandise shop, named 1 Shubert Alley Broadway, located adjacent to the Winter Garden Theater between 50th and 51st Streets. This new location aims to cater to tourists and Broadway enthusiasts seeking souvenirs beyond the original, quaint establishment.

B. Featured Performances and Specials

• Norwegian Wicked Production:
  A unique rendition incorporating Ariana Grande's "Popular" scene, tailored to the Norwegian audience with localized elements.

• BOOP's Jasmine Amy Rogers:
  A performance titled Something to Shout About, featuring studio-recorded content.

• 10th Anniversary Hamilton Series at United Palace:
  Hosted by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the event includes Renee Lee Goldenberry's Satisfied documentary and live performances, generating immense excitement among fans.

Grace shared her enthusiasm for these events, particularly the innovative adaptations and commemorative celebrations surrounding beloved productions and creators.

6. Closing Remarks

Matt Tamminini and Grace Aki wrapped up the episode by encouraging listeners to follow BroadwayRadio on social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. They also reminded audiences to check out Grace's personal page, "It's Grace Hockey," for additional content.

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Tamminini ([03:57]):
  "We want all of the workers to be able to get the money and the compensation and the benefits that they deserve."

• Grace Aki ([10:01]):
  "There are some really heavy themes at play in this moment."

• Jesse Green, The New York Times ([05:10]):
  "Distasteful though that is, it's a good drama."

• Joey Simmons, Theaterly ([11:14]):
  "The joy of the piece lies in discovering Larson's most bizarre and ambitious works in progress."

This comprehensive overview captures the essence of the Today on Broadway episode from March 12, 2025, providing listeners with in-depth insights into significant Broadway and Off Broadway developments, reviews, and industry trends.