Podcast Summary: MickeyJoTheatre on "Rebecca the Musical" London Preview

Podcast Information:

• Title: MickeyJoTheatre
• Host/Author: MickeyJoTheatre (Mickey Jo)
• Episode: Let's Talk About REBECCA the Musical in London... | First Preview Discussion ft Wait in the Wings​
• Release Date: September 11, 2023

Introduction to "Rebecca the Musical"

In this episode, Mickey Jo hosts Brendan from the YouTube channel "Wait in the Wings" to discuss the highly anticipated London preview of "Rebecca the Musical" at the Charing Cross Theatre. The conversation delves into the musical's tumultuous history, its revival, and what audiences can expect from this new production.

Brendan’s Connection to "Rebecca the Musical"

Brendan shares his journey discovering "Rebecca the Musical," highlighting how extensive research and personal connections deepened his involvement.

Brendan (00:36): "If you ever encounter bad luck or, like, something doesn't go your way, you just go, Rebecca."

He explains that his interest began inadvertently while planning a move to the East Coast, leading him down a "rabbit hole" of the show's dramatic backstory, including fake investors and mysterious cancellations.

Brendan (02:02): "The YouTube channel we cover flops... One of the things people kept requesting was Rebecca the Musical."

Announcement of the London Production

The announcement of "Rebecca the Musical" making its English language premiere in London comes as a surprise to Brendan, especially given the show's troubled past, including a notorious cancellation in Broadway history.

Brendan (05:11): "No, absolutely not. Because we met with Michael in Vienna, and we... I thought it was, no pun intended, burned."

Contrary to expectations, Brendan expresses excitement over the show's revival, emphasizing that it marks the first time in over a decade that "Rebecca" is seeing the light of day in English.

First Impressions of the Charing Cross Theatre

Brendan recounts his initial visit to the Charing Cross Theatre, contrasting it with the grandeur of the Vienna venue.

Brendan (11:37): "What I wasn't expecting was we get off the train and then we just go around the corner and we go down into a tunnel... it's just... such a difference in the venues."

He appreciates the intimate setting, noting how the smaller space allows for a different, more focused presentation of the musical's score and narrative.

Production Elements: Set, Sound, and Direction

The discussion transitions to the innovative staging and technical aspects of the London production. The use of a concertina-style set and pseudo-immersive elements stands out as a departure from the opulent productions of the past.

Mickey Jo (15:25): "They do some clever things with the set... pseudo immersive element."

Brendan praises the sound design, particularly the reduction of the orchestra from a 34-piece in Vienna to an 18-piece ensemble, maintaining the musical's richness despite the smaller scale.

Brendan (29:29): "And I think that really shows... Instead of, like, let's go all in on creating this huge, elaborate set, it's... let's invest in the musicians."

The new director, Alejandro Bonado, with an opera background, brings a fresh perspective to the production, enhancing its dramatic depth.

Brendan (18:10): "It's the first time in 15 plus years that it's seen a new director."

Audience Reaction at the Preview

Brendan shares his observations of the audience's enthusiastic response during the first preview, particularly during the second act and finale.

Brendan (14:40): "...the problem was never the show. The problem was the circumstances surrounding it."

The positive reception contrasts sharply with the show's previous struggles, signaling a hopeful resurgence.

Comparison Between Vienna and London Productions

A detailed comparison highlights the differences in staging, language, and emotional impact between the Vienna and London versions.

Mickey Jo (25:02): "Did you feel like this one was grounded in a little bit more reality?"

Brendan (25:05): "Absolutely."

He notes that the London production offers a more intimate and emotionally resonant experience, with actors delivering more nuanced performances.

Brendan (22:15): "It was just hard because, like, that's the big scene and having that moment where the bellhops come out and they're flying like birds."

Aspirations for the Future of "Rebecca the Musical"

Looking ahead, Brendan expresses hope that the London production will pave the way for "Rebecca the Musical" to grace larger stages, including the West End and potentially Broadway.

Brendan (32:32): "I mean, I really hope so... selfishly and personally, I want to see it go to Broadway too."

He underscores the importance of overcoming past obstacles, such as fake investors and logistical challenges, to finally realize the show's full potential.

Conclusion

Mickey Jo and Brendan wrap up the discussion by encouraging listeners to explore both "Wait in the Wings" for a comprehensive documentary on "Rebecca the Musical" and to attend the London previews. Brendan hints at an upcoming detailed review post-press night, inviting subscribers to stay tuned.

Brendan (34:20): "If you ever encounter bad luck or like something doesn't go your way, you just go, Rebecca."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Brendan (00:36): "If you ever encounter bad luck or, like, something doesn't go your way, you just go, Rebecca."
• Brendan (02:02): "One of the things people kept requesting was Rebecca the Musical."
• Brendan (05:11): "No, absolutely not. Because we met with Michael in Vienna, and we... I thought it was, no pun intended, burned."
• Brendan (11:37): "It's just... such a difference in the venues."
• Brendan (14:40): "...the problem was never the show. The problem was the circumstances surrounding it."
• Brendan (18:10): "It's the first time in 15 plus years that it's seen a new director."
• Brendan (25:05): "Absolutely."
• Brendan (32:32): "I mean, I really hope so... selfishly and personally, I want to see it go to Broadway too."
• Brendan (34:20): "If you ever encounter bad luck or like something doesn't go your way, you just go, Rebecca."

Final Thoughts

This episode provides an in-depth look at the revival of "Rebecca the Musical," blending Brendan’s expert insights with Mickey Jo’s engaging hosting. It underscores the significance of this production in reviving a once-cursed show and offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of what makes "Rebecca the Musical" a must-watch in London's vibrant theatre scene.