Podcast Summary: MickeyJoTheatre Episode on "Adam Lambert and Auli'i Cravalho Join CABARET on Broadway"
Episode Information
- Title: MickeyJoTheatre
- Host/Author: MickeyJoTheatre (Mika Jo)
- Episode: Adam Lambert and Auli'i Cravalho join CABARET on Broadway | Mickey-Jo's thoughts on the new revival leads
- Release Date: July 24, 2024
Introduction to the Revival Cast Changes
In this episode, Mickey-Jo enthusiastically breaks down the latest casting news for the Broadway revival of Cabaret at the August Wilson Theatre. The revival, which premiered earlier in the year, originally starred Tony Award nominees Eddie Redmayne and Gail Rankin. The new casting announcements feature pop sensation Adam Lambert as the MC and Disney's Auli'i Cravalho taking on the iconic role of Sally Bowles.
Notable Quote:
"I'm obsessed with all things theatre and there is breaking Broadway news re new starry casting for the current Broadway revival of Cabaret..." [00:00]
Overview of Casting Announcements
Mickey-Jo reveals that Adam Lambert and Auli'i Cravalho will be succeeding Eddie Redmayne and Gail Rankin, respectively. The transition is set to begin on September 16, 2024, continuing through March 30, 2025. Eddie and Gail will perform their final shows on September 14, 2024.
Notable Quote:
"Auli Cravalho, AKA the voice of Disney's Moana... and Adam Lambert of American Idol... are going to be taking over the roles of Sally Bowles and the MC in Cabaret..." [08:00]
Historical Context of Cast Changes
Mickey-Jo provides a comprehensive history of previous casting changes in both the West End and Broadway productions. She highlights the strategic importance of rotating star performers to maintain audience interest and keep the production fresh. Examples from West End’s Cabaret include stars like John McCrea, Trey, Amy Lou Wood, Jake Shears, Rebecca Lucy Taylor, Cara Delevingne, and others.
Notable Quote:
"We have had a great many Sally Bowles and MCs in the West End and the focus has very much been on these two. The marketing has been built around these two and star names in both of these roles..." [12:30]
Adam Lambert as the New MC
Mickey-Jo delves into Adam Lambert’s suitability for the MC role, emphasizing his strong vocal abilities and theatrical presence. She references Lambert's previous Broadway experience as Fiyero in Wicked and his performances on shows like American Idol and Glee. The host anticipates Lambert bringing his unique flair and vocal prowess to the MC, potentially attracting a broader audience.
Notable Quote:
"Adam Lambert can act. Adam Lambert has done Broadway before... It'll probably tell me all of this in the press release..." [25:15]
Auli'i Cravalho as Sally Bowles
The episode explores Auli'i Cravalho’s transition from voicing Disney's Moana to starring in Broadway’s Cabaret. Mickey-Jo praises Cravalho's strategic career choices that pave her path toward major Broadway roles, highlighting her performances in Evita in concert and Mean Girls. The host is particularly excited about Cravalho's ability to blend her singing talent with the gritty, complex character of Sally Bowles.
Notable Quote:
"Casting for the roles of Sally Bowles and the MC after March 30 will be announced in the new year. But you know, this is a six-month stint. Just over six months." [40:00]
Implications for the Production
Mickey-Jo discusses the potential impact of the new casting on the Broadway revival’s success. She compares the strategy to other New York shows like Little Shop of Horrors and Chicago, which use stunt casting to draw in diverse audiences. The emphasis is on maintaining high production quality while leveraging the star power of Lambert and Cravalho to sustain interest and ticket sales.
Notable Quote:
"Cabaret wants to maintain that reputation of quality. They don't want to look like they're bringing in reality TV stars and ex-sports people..." [35:00]
Personal Insights and Conclusion
Mickey-Jo shares her personal enthusiasm for the casting changes, expressing confidence in both Lambert and Cravalho’s abilities to enhance the production. She reflects on her multiple viewings of Cabaret, appreciating the nuanced storytelling and creative collaboration behind the scenes. The host encourages listeners to support the show and engage with the production’s evolving narrative.
Notable Quotes:
"I am very excited to see her [Auli'i Cravalho] do that." [42:30]
"I want it to have the success that it deserves on Broadway because it represents an enormous creative collaboration..." [50:00]
Listener Engagement
Towards the end, Mickey-Jo invites listeners to share their thoughts on the new casting in the comments, fostering a community discussion around the potential performances of Adam Lambert and Auli'i Cravalho.
Notable Quote:
"Please comment down below with all of your thoughts and feelings about this latest star casting news. Which of these two are you most looking forward to?" [55:00]
Conclusion
MickeyJoTheatre’s episode provides an in-depth and enthusiastic analysis of the new casting for Cabaret on Broadway. By highlighting the backgrounds and strengths of Adam Lambert and Auli'i Cravalho, Mika Jo offers insightful commentary on how these changes could revitalize the production. The episode serves as a comprehensive guide for theatre enthusiasts eager to follow the evolution of this beloved musical.