BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary: Today on Broadway – Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Hosted by Matt Tammini and Grace Aki
1. Introduction and Upcoming Interviews
Matt Tammini kicked off the episode by highlighting upcoming interviews available in the podcast feeds:
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Jasmine Forsberg discussing her experience working on Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends alongside Broadway legends. Matt mentioned, “[...] she talked about working with so many legends in that show, what the process was like for her to even be involved with it” (00:09).
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An upcoming conversation with Dan DeLuca, Jen Cody, and Kyle Taylor Parker about their production of Guys and Dolls at the Malt's Jupiter Theater.
Matt encouraged listeners to check out these interviews and explore the featured shows in both New York and South Florida.
2. Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends Extension
Matt shared breaking news about the Manhattan Theater Club’s decision to extend Old Friends on Broadway by two additional weeks, now running through June 15th. Initially slated to close on June 1st, Jasmine Forsberg had indicated a potential 16-week run. Matt expressed his excitement, noting plans to watch the show with fellow Sondheim enthusiast Ashley Steves.
Grace Aki reflected on her personal preferences, stating, “I am not somebody who generally goes to these [...] it's not one of those things that I hierarchy prioritize” (02:28). However, she expressed genuine interest in the assembled cast and confirmed her plans to see the show, highlighting her curiosity about the production.
Matt responded by distinguishing the show from typical concerts, emphasizing the performance elements like costumes and choreography. He remarked, “[...] it's not just like a 54 sings Stephen Sondheim kind of thing” (03:43).
3. Atlantic Theater Company’s Season Resumption
Matt announced that the Atlantic Theater Company is resuming its 2024-2025 season following the resolution of a contract strike. The season includes:
- David Greenspan: March 29 – April 30
- Grief Camp: April 5 – May 11
- A Freaky Introduction: May 16 – June 22
- Low Country: June 4 – July 13
He highlighted the importance of organized labor in ensuring artists can continue their work, stating, “Everybody is back to work, and now we know when their entire season is going to be seen” (06:16).
Grace commended the transparency and support from those involved, noting the positive movement in unionized regulations and commitments. She observed, “...this feels like more of a movement that people are being more vocal and honest” (06:28).
4. Off-Broadway Spotlight: Lights Out, Nat King Cole
Matt introduced the New York Theater Workshop’s upcoming New York premiere of Lights Out, Nat King Cole, set to begin performances on April 13 and run through June 15. Key cast members include:
- Colman Domingo as Nat King Cole
- Dulay Hill as Sammy Davis Jr.
- Crystal Joy Brown, Kathy Fitzgerald, Ruby Lewis, among others.
He shared his admiration for Dulay Hill, recounting how Hill inspired him in his youth: “I literally immediately asked my mom to put me in tap classes” (08:17). Grace echoed this sentiment, sharing a personal story about how Hill’s performance in Smart Guy motivated her to pursue tap dancing, despite initial challenges.
Additionally, Grace expressed her enthusiasm for Colman Domingo, describing herself as “obsessed with him top to bottom” (08:43).
5. Off-Broadway Extension: Joy Behar's My First Ex Husband
Matt announced an extension and new cast additions for Joy Behar's My First Ex Husband at the newly renovated MMAC Theater on West 60th Street. The new cast starting April 23rd includes:
- Marcia Mason (two-time Oscar nominee)
- Benja K. Thomas (from Fathom)
- Julia Sweeney (Saturday Night Live alum)
- Mary Lou Henner
The extended run will continue until May 18th. Matt encouraged listeners to visit the show notes for more information.
6. Broadway Grosses Overview
Matt and Grace delved into last week's Broadway grosses, highlighting significant statistics:
- Total Grosses: Over $41 million from 33 shows, marking a 10% increase.
- Attendance: 298,176 attendees, up by 7%.
- Average Ticket Price: Increased by 2% to $137.88.
Notably, several shows exceeded $2 million in grosses:
- Good Night and Good Luck: $3,305,240 in seven performances.
- Wicked: $2.5 million.
- Othello: Nearly $2.5 million.
- Glengarry Glen Ross: $2.2 million.
- Hamilton: $2 million.
- The Lion King: $2.06 million.
Grace and Matt discussed the impressive performances of these shows, with Good Night and Good Luck leading the pack, potentially expanding its run based on its success.
Additionally, they noted high occupancy rates, with 27 out of 33 shows playing to 90% capacity or more. Shows like Oh Mary!, Operation Mincemeat, and Wicked achieved 100% capacity.
7. Stage to Screen: Kiss of the Spider Woman Adaptation and Othello Film Prospects
Matt reported that the film adaptation of Kiss of the Spider Woman, starring Jennifer Lopez (JLo), has secured a distribution deal with Roadside Attractions, Lionsgate, and LD Entertainment. The film is expected to receive a wide release later in the year, likely positioning it for awards contention.
Grace shared her excitement for the project, referencing Dulay Hill’s influence on her childhood and expressing admiration for both Dulay Hill and Colman Domingo. She affirmed her support, saying, “This was very exciting. Also, Colman Domingo... I'm obsessed with him top to bottom” (08:39).
Matt further discussed rumors of a potential film adaptation of Othello involving Kenny Leon and Denzel Washington, with hopes of Jake Gyllenhaal joining the cast. While no official confirmation exists, Matt noted Leon’s vision to adapt the story authentically for the screen.
Grace and Matt debated whether the success of Wicked might overshadow the new Kiss of the Spider Woman film. Grace reassured, “I think that they can all coexist” (14:35), emphasizing the distinct styles and audiences of each production.
8. Theater Renovations: Todd Haynes Theater
Matt provided an update on the upcoming eight-month renovation of the Todd Haynes Theater. The renovations will include significant upgrades:
- Enhanced accessibility features
- Installation of an electromagnetic signal system to transmit direct sound to hearing aids for deaf and hard-of-hearing patrons
He directed listeners to the show notes for detailed information on these improvements, highlighting the theater’s commitment to inclusivity and modern amenities.
9. Conclusion and Social Media
The episode concluded with Matt and Grace encouraging listeners to follow them on various social media platforms:
- Matt Tammini: Instagram @BW.Matt
- Grace Aki: Instagram @GraceHockey
They wrapped up by thanking listeners and teasing future content.
For more detailed information on any of the discussed topics, please refer to the show notes provided with the podcast.