Podcast Summary: The Broadway Show: Uncut — Episode: Alyssa Milano's Broadway Debut! Plus, Adam Lambert & Auli'i Cravalho

Release Date: September 27, 2024

In this riveting episode of “The Broadway Show: Uncut,” host Tamsen Fadal delves into the bustling world of Broadway with two major segments: an exclusive interview with TV sensation Alyssa Milano as she marks her Broadway debut, and an insightful conversation with pop icon Adam Lambert alongside a new cast member from the latest revival of the classic musical Cabaret. This episode offers listeners an in-depth look into the challenges, triumphs, and behind-the-scenes intricacies of bringing beloved characters to life on stage.

Alyssa Milano's Broadway Debut as Roxie Hart in Chicago

Bringing Roxie Hart to Life

The episode kicks off with Tamsen Fadal welcoming Alyssa Milano, who shares her excitement about portraying Roxie Hart in the Tony-winning revival of Chicago.

• Alyssa Milano (00:04): Discusses the complexity of Roxie Hart, emphasizing her multifaceted nature: “She’s funny and fearless and dynamic, ambitious, all those incredible, incredible things” (00:29).

Character Exploration and Relevance

Milano delves into how Roxie Hart remains relevant three decades after the original production, highlighting the timelessness of the script, music, and character traits that resonate with modern audiences.

• Alyssa Milano (01:23): “I find that interesting, the fact that it’s still so relevant. Yeah, 30 years, you know, and I think that that says something about the writing, about the music, about the intention, about the emotion, the relatability” (01:23).

Preparation and Challenges

Facing the daunting task of learning choreography and vocal pieces within a tight three-week rehearsal period, Milano candidly shares her journey:

• Alyssa Milano (03:28): Reflects on the intensity of preparing: “I realized is the thing that makes my Roxie different is, you know, I’m only 52 on a really proud day. I’m not a professional dancer. I’m not a professional singer” (01:23).

• Milano (03:46): Admits to the overwhelming experience of hearing the orchestra: “Until my opening night, I had never heard the orchestra do any of the songs. No wonder” (03:46).

Support System and Personal Motivation

Milano attributes her courage to pursue Broadway to her family, especially her daughter, who is actively involved in musical theater.

• Alyssa Milano (06:30): “My daughter was really instrumental in helping me find the courage both my kids. Oh, wow. She’s 10 and she’s in musical theater and she auditions for things all the time” (06:30).

Insights on Live Performance

Discussing the dynamics of performing live, Milano highlights the unpredictable nature of live audiences and the adaptability required from performers.

• Alyssa Milano (08:17): “I love having the audience there. And it always is like another character in the show because it changes the dynamic of the performances every single night” (08:17).

Future Endeavors and Advocacy

Beyond acting, Milano touches upon her involvement in advocacy work, particularly focusing on perimenopause and menopause awareness, reflecting her commitment to influencing positive societal change.

• Alyssa Milano (13:32): “It’s about perimenopause...something that does not get discussed” (13:32).

Notable Quotes:

• “Roxie is a little. Not naive.” (02:26)
• “Life is long and you could. Do all the things much longer than we realized it was going to be in these years.” (07:20)
• “Don't give up. Just keep trying.” (13:25)

Behind the Scenes of Cabaret with Adam Lambert & New Cast Member

Introduction to the Revival

Transitioning from the spotlight on Milano, the podcast introduces Adam Lambert and a new cast member as they prepare to take on roles in the visionary revival of Cabaret at the iconic Kit Kat Club.

• Paul Wontorek (15:47): Opens the segment with enthusiasm: “Welcome to Broadway” (15:47).

Personal Journeys and Broadway Dreams

Lambert reflects on his transition from pop music to theater, sharing his emotional journey and the fulfillment of long-held dreams.

• Adam Lambert (16:30): “I’m on that emotional journey, roller coaster whether I like it or not” (16:30).

The new cast member recounts their Broadway aspirations, highlighting the serendipitous nature of their career path.

• New Cast Member (16:42): “Coming back to this is like, oh, yeah, this is what I wanted when I was a kid” (16:42).

Experience with Immersive Production

Both performers discuss the unique 360-degree stage design and the immersive nature of the production, which blurs the lines between performers and audience.

• Adam Lambert (19:05): Explains the interactive elements: “Importantly, you're introducing everyone like they are truly here in the club with us” (19:05).

• New Cast Member (19:25): Describes the necessity of adapting to a round stage: “It’s abstract, it’s cool” (19:25).

Themes and Representation

Lambert and the new cast member emphasize the production’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, noting the presence of gender-fluid and transgender individuals in both cast and crew.

• Adam Lambert (22:19): “We are so blessed that our cast, but also our crew, our stage hands, our stage managers, are also gender fluid” (22:19).

• New Cast Member (25:16): Highlights the show's reflection of contemporary societal issues: “A lot of what we’re dealing with now in our culture is reflected in this piece” (25:16).

Artistic Challenges and Growth

Lambert shares his desire to shed film expectations and embrace the spontaneity of live theater, while the new cast member looks forward to expanding their acting repertoire beyond music.

• Adam Lambert (26:07): “Removing my own expectations is the goal and hopefully what I get to” (26:07).

• New Cast Member (27:43): “I’m really excited about that. And proving it to myself and digging into that and exploring the character and finding some little new things every night” (27:43).

Notable Quotes:

• “The Kit Kat Club... there’s so much about that in the experience of coming.” (20:22)
• “It is frightening. And you know, what part of this show and what makes it so incredible is that it’s scary.” (25:19)
• “That’s your Roxie and that’s my Roxie. Don’t give up. Just keep trying.” (13:25)

Conclusion: Embracing the Broadway Spirit

The episode concludes by celebrating the vibrant energy that both Alyssa Milano and Adam Lambert bring to Broadway. Their stories underscore the dedication, resilience, and passion required to excel in live theater, serving as an inspiration to aspiring performers and Broadway enthusiasts alike. As “The Broadway Show: Uncut” wraps up, listeners are left with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and behind-the-scenes efforts that make Broadway productions like Chicago and Cabaret unforgettable.

Key Takeaways:

• Alyssa Milano showcases her versatility and dedication in taking on a complex Broadway role, balancing personal growth with professional challenges.
• Adam Lambert and his fellow cast members reveal the transformative experience of immersive theater, emphasizing themes of diversity and societal reflection.
• The episode highlights the enduring relevance of classic musicals and the continuous evolution of Broadway through fresh talent and innovative productions.

Final Thoughts: This episode of “The Broadway Show: Uncut” masterfully blends personal narratives with professional insights, offering a comprehensive look at what it takes to shine on Broadway. Whether you’re a longtime theater aficionado or new to the stage, the discussions with Alyssa Milano and Adam Lambert provide valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of Broadway entertainment.