Podcast Summary: "What's Wrong with Eddie Redmayne in CABARET?"

Podcast Information:

• Title: MickeyJoTheatre
• Host/Author: MickeyJoTheatre (Micky Jo)
• Description: Join Mickey-Jo from MickeyJoTheatre as he reviews the latest shows from the West End, Broadway, Off-Broadway, Off-West End, Edinburgh Fringe, and across the globe. As a leading voice in theatre criticism on social platforms, Mickey-Jo pioneers a new medium for the dwindling field, sharing reviews, features, news, interviews, and lifestyle content with over 60,000 subscribers on his YouTube channel: MickeyJoTheatre.
• Episode: What's Wrong with Eddie Redmayne in CABARET? | About the response to his performance as the Emcee
• Release Date: June 24, 2024

Introduction

In this episode, Micky Jo delves deep into the critical discourse surrounding Eddie Redmayne's portrayal of the Emcee (MC) in the latest revival of the classic musical Cabaret. Disturbed by the flurry of social media opinions primarily based on a Tony Awards clip, Micky Jo aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of Redmayne's performance within the broader context of the production's history and interpretations.

Overview of the Episode

Micky Jo begins by expressing his frustration with superficial critiques of Eddie Redmayne's MC, emphasizing the importance of context—specifically, the difference between evaluating a single clip versus the entire performance within the show's framework. He highlights the subjective nature of theatre and asserts that while all interpretations are valid, informed opinions consider the full scope of the production.

Notable Quote:

"I’m going to lose my entire mind. Or for those that have seen the show, an acknowledgement that art and by extension theatre... is inherently subjective." [00:02]

History of Cabaret and the MC Role

Micky Jo provides a detailed recount of Cabaret’s origins, tracing it back to the 1939 novel Goodbye to Berlin by Christopher Isherwood, and its subsequent adaptations into the 1951 play I Am a Camera and the 1966 Broadway musical. He outlines the structural composition of Cabaret, alternating between the narrative of Cliff and Sally's lives and the vibrant performances at the Kit Kat Club, primarily led by the MC.

Key Points:

• Cabaret premiered on Broadway in 1966 with a book by Joe Masteroff and music by John Kander and Fred Ebb.
• The MC role is unique, serving as both a performer within the Kit Kat Club and an external observer, embodying political satire and dark humor.
• Historically, the MC has been a role interpreted differently across various productions, with notable actors like Joel Grey and Alan Cumming leaving distinct imprints.

Eddie Redmayne's Performance

Micky Jo examines Eddie Redmayne's ascension to the MC role, noting his Olivier Award win for Best Actor in a Musical in the UK, contrasting it with the non-win at the Tony Awards in the US. He explores how Redmayne's portrayal differs from predecessors, emphasizing his transformative acting style and the physicality he brings to the character.

Notable Quote:

"He disappeared into this character that really struck me. There is a moment... he hunched over slightly and his eyes check. It still haunts me enduringly." [00:02]

Critical Reception

UK Reviews

Micky Jo reviews several UK critics' responses, highlighting both praise and criticism for Redmayne's MC. UK reviews commend Redmayne's physicality and vocal performance but also note a certain contrived element in his portrayal.

Notable Quotes:

"Redmayne’s MC... mirrors the movement from light to dark." - The Guardian [Timestamp not provided]

"Redmayne contorts his face, twists his fingers... a fiercely committed performance, but a mannered one too." - Variety [Timestamp not provided]

US Reviews

In contrast, US critics exhibited a more divided stance. While acknowledging Redmayne's dedication, some felt his portrayal lacked the charm and subtlety of previous actors like Alan Cumming and Joel Grey.

Notable Quotes:

"Redmayne's MC... is sure to divide opinion." - New York Post [Timestamp not provided]

"He's creepy and has the smiling stalker stare of a horror movie serial killer. And still we're pleased whenever he's around." - New York Post [Timestamp not provided]

Differences in Interpretations

Micky Jo discusses how different productions have reinterpreted the MC, particularly focusing on the queer undertones introduced in Sam Mendes' revival with Alan Cumming. He contrasts this with Redmayne's representation, which some perceive as more sinister and less personable.

Key Points:

• Alan Cumming's MC: Emphasized queer identity through costuming and character interactions, making the MC a more relatable and vibrant figure.
• Eddie Redmayne's MC: Viewed as an embodiment of Germany's soul, with a darker, more detached presence that some critics find alienating.

Notable Quote:

"He represents the soul of the country, one that Cliff encounters as being sort of playful and suggestive, but wary with a little bit of menace." [Timestamp not provided]

Analysis of the MC Character

Micky Jo delves into the symbolic role of the MC, exploring how different portrayals reflect various facets of German society during the rise of Nazism. He challenges the predominant queer interpretation, suggesting that in Redmayne's rendition, the MC is more an allegory for the national spirit rather than an individual with a defined sexual identity.

Key Points:

• The MC's lack of personal backstory allows for diverse interpretations.
• Redmayne's portrayal emphasizes the MC as an omnipresent force, perhaps representing the collective consciousness of Germany during a tumultuous era.
• Costume and physical transformation play significant roles in conveying the MC's evolving nature.

Notable Quote:

"The MC is really more of a creature here and not a man... there's a prerequisite through which we can gaze a concept of the MC's sexuality." [Timestamp not provided]

Conclusion

Micky Jo concludes by reiterating the importance of context in evaluating performances. He emphasizes that Eddie Redmayne's portrayal of the MC is a collaborative effort between actor and director, Rebecca Frecknell, and should be assessed within the framework of the production's overall vision. While acknowledging the divided opinions, Micky Jo advocates for a more nuanced understanding of Redmayne's performance, encouraging listeners to watch the full production before forming judgments.

Notable Quote:

"A performance is a collaboration between... actor and director... whether it aligns with your understanding of Cabaret is more nuanced than just sharing a hot take." [Timestamp not provided]

Micky Jo invites listeners to engage in the conversation, sharing their own perspectives and experiences with Redmayne's Cabaret performance.

Additional Highlights:

• Tony Awards Performance: Micky Jo critiques the ubiquitous online scrutiny of Redmayne's Tony Awards presentation of "Vilkomen," arguing that without the show's full context, the performance is often misinterpreted.

• Comparisons to Predecessors: Throughout the episode, Redmayne is compared to Joel Grey and Alan Cumming, with discussions centering on how each actor's unique interpretation shapes the MC's legacy.

• Physicality and Costuming: A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Redmayne's physical transformation and costuming choices, which contribute to the haunting and detached portrayal of the MC.

Final Thoughts:

This episode serves as an in-depth exploration of the complexities involved in theatrical performances and the varied receptions they garner. Micky Jo effectively dismantles surface-level critiques, urging audiences to appreciate the artistry and collaborative nature of theatre. Whether agreeing or disagreeing with his perspectives, listeners are encouraged to engage thoughtfully with the performance and contribute their insights to the ongoing conversation.