Podcast Episode Summary: MickeyJoTheatre – "Opening Night to Close Early in London | A Rant About Musical Theatre Producers and 'Risks'"

Episode Details:

• Title: Opening Night to Close Early in London | A Rant About Musical Theatre Producers and 'Risks'
• Host: MickeyJoTheatre (Mickey-Jo)
• Release Date: April 11, 2024

Introduction

In this emotionally charged episode, Mickey-Jo from MickeyJoTheatre delves into the unexpected early closure of the new West End musical, "Opening Night", at London's Gielgud Theatre. Originally slated to run until July 27, 2024, the production has been abruptly canceled, with its final performance now scheduled for May 18, 2024.

"Opening Night was always going to be a limited run, but it was originally planned to last until 27 July 2024. If you have tickets for the dates between 20 May and 27 July, then you ought to have been contacted..." [00:01]

Mickey-Jo expresses his initial reluctance to cover the news but felt compelled to address the broader implications for UK theatre production.

Backstory of "Opening Night"

"Opening Night" is an adaptation of the 1977 John Cassavetes film, reimagined for the stage by the renowned director Ivo Van Hove. Known for his polarizing works such as the recent productions of "All About Eve" in the West End and the "West Side Story" revival on Broadway, Van Hove brings a distinct vision to this musical. Collaborating with singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright, who penned his first musical theatre score for the show, the production aimed to blend cinematic storytelling with theatrical innovation.

"He had previously directed a stunning production of 'A View from the Bridge'. Very recently, of course, 'A Little Life' in the West End." [Transcript Segment]

Critical Reception and Audience Reaction

From the onset, "Opening Night" faced significant challenges. Early preview performances saw numerous audience walkouts, with reports indicating hundreds leaving each show even before official critics reviewed the production. Despite changes implemented between previews and press night, the overall reception remained lukewarm to negative.

"Press night rolled around and myself and many other critics went to see the show and the reaction broadly was not positive." [Transcript Segment]

Mickey-Jo points out that while bad reviews alone might not doom a production, the combination of a non-commercial property and mismatched star casting contributed to dwindling ticket sales. Specifically, Sheridan Smith, the lead, was highlighted as not aligning with the show's marketing strategy as effectively as her previous success with "Shirley Valentine".

"The best way to utilise these stars is in a way that ties in with their personal brand." [Transcript Segment]

Producer's Statement and Host's Critique

The producers from Wessex Grove released a statement emphasizing the artistic risk and commitment involved in bringing "Opening Night" to the West End amidst a challenging financial landscape. They expressed pride in their decision despite the show's premature closure.

"It is an honour to produce this beautiful new musical in the West End... Opening Night was always a risk." [00:01]

Mickey-Jo vehemently disagrees with labeling the production as a "risk." He argues that the backing of a high-profile director and a star like Sheridan Smith does not inherently constitute risk-taking but rather reflects calculated, albeit flawed, decisions.

"And that's because it's not a risk. It's just a bad decision." [Transcript Segment]

"Getting Sheridan Smith to star in this, a performer that a lot of shows could only dream of having the access to, does not represent a risk." [Transcript Segment]

Director’s Statement and Host's Response

Director Eva Van Hove issued a heartfelt statement, lauding the cast's commitment and the unique artistic vision of the production. She expressed sorrow over the early closure but remained optimistic about the show's enduring impact on those involved.

"I had the most wonderful and inspiring time making Opening Night thanks to the talent and commitment of our incredible cast..." [00:01]

While Mickey-Jo extends his sympathy towards the cast and crew, he maintains his stance that the production's failure was not due to taking an artistic risk but rather a series of missteps in execution and marketing.

"This is not the kind of artistic risk that we should be celebrating and championing." [Transcript Segment]

Impact on Cast and Future Prospects

The early closure of "Opening Night" not only affects the producers but also the talented cast, including Sheridan Smith, Amy Lennox, Hadley Fraser, Benjamin Walker, Rebecca Thornhill, Joss Slovik, and Nicola Hughes. Mickey-Jo expresses hope that these performers will continue to find success despite this setback.

"For the likes of Sheridan Smith, the offers will continue to be there and she's worked a lot in theatre recently." [Transcript Segment]

Regarding the future of the show, Mickey-Jo is pessimistic about its potential transfers due to its lack of commercial appeal and the timing with other major productions such as "Sunset Boulevard".

"If you believe in the material that much, you can just focus on the material without the gimmick." [Transcript Segment]

Speculations on Future West End Programming

Looking ahead, Mickey-Jo speculates on possible replacements for "Opening Night" at the Gielgud Theatre. He mentions Frank Skinner's upcoming show and entertains the possibility of "Groundhog Day" making a UK return after its tour, although he acknowledges that this remains purely speculative.

"Groundhog Day, one of this year's nominees for best revival of a musical... could we see Groundhog Day doing a couple months in the Gielgud before launching a UK tour?" [Transcript Segment]

Conclusion

Mickey-Jo concludes the episode by reiterating his support for live theatre and encouraging listeners to continue championing productions that resonate emotionally and artistically. He emphasizes the importance of diverse storytelling and authentic representation within the industry.

"Whatever you want to go and see, whatever it is that speaks to you... go and see that show, go and recommend that show to your friends." [Transcript Segment]

He extends his empathy to the cast and crew affected by the early closure and expresses a desire for more thoughtful and artistically driven productions in the future.

"I take no joy from any premature closing announcement and I take no joy from this one." [Transcript Segment]

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mickey-Jo on Producer’s Statement:

  "Our world class cast delivers a brilliant show night after night. And there are still five weeks left to see Sheridan Smith in the role of a lifetime." [00:01]

• Host's Critique on 'Risk' Label:

  "And that's because it's not a risk. It's just a bad decision." [00:01]

• On Sheridan Smith's Casting:

  "Getting Sheridan Smith to star in this, a performer that a lot of shows could only dream of having the access to, does not represent a risk." [00:01]

• Director Eva Van Hove's Statement:

  "I had the most wonderful and inspiring time making Opening Night thanks to the talent and commitment of our incredible cast and production team." [00:01]

• Host’s Sympathy for the Cast:

  "This is not what joy looks like like on my face." [00:01]

• Speculation on Future Shows:

  "Could we see Groundhog Day doing a couple months in the Gielgud before launching a UK tour?" [00:01]

Final Thoughts: This episode serves as both a critical analysis of the specific case of "Opening Night" and a broader commentary on the current state of UK theatre production. Mickey-Jo leverages his platform to advocate for higher artistic standards and more genuine risk-taking that prioritizes creative integrity over purely commercial decisions. Listeners are encouraged to remain engaged with live theatre and support productions that align with their personal and emotional preferences.