The Broadway Show: Uncut – Episode Summary
Episode Title: John Gallagher, Jr. is 'Swept Away! Plus 'A Beautiful Noise'
Release Date: October 30, 2024
Host: Tamsen Fadal
Correspondents: Paul Wontorek, Perry Sook, Charlie Cooper
1. Introduction to 'Swept Away' with John Gallagher, Jr. and Robert Westenberg
The episode kicks off with host Tamsen Fadal introducing two major segments: an in-depth conversation about the new musical "Swept Away," inspired by the Avett Brothers, featuring star John Gallagher, Jr., and an upcoming discussion about the national tour of "A Beautiful Noise."
John Gallagher, Jr. and Robert Westenberg engage in a detailed discussion about the creation and significance of "Swept Away."
Robert Westenberg provides an overview of the musical:
"Swept Away is a new musical with a book by John Logan and songs by the Avett Brothers. They're a roots rock band from North Carolina. It's directed by my friend Michael Mayer, who did Spring Awakening and American Idiot with me. It's a show about four sailors in the late 1800s who find themselves lost at sea on a lifeboat after their whaling vessel sinks in a storm."
(00:44 - 01:10)
2. The Genesis and Appeal of 'Swept Away'
The conversation delves into what attracted Robert and John to the project. Robert attributes his early involvement to his admiration for the creative team and his desire to embark on a new adventure after nearly a decade away from creating new musicals.
"I said yes, before there was a script. I just heard that Michael was thinking about directing it... this is a no brainer to me to get involved with people that I admire in a show that sounds like it's gonna be a big adventure."
(01:10 - 01:53)
John Gallagher, Jr. contrasts working on new musicals versus revivals, highlighting the unique freedom and personal investment involved in building characters from the ground up.
"It's interesting to have that, you know, be able to really just create and have freedom to create that all. You own that character."
(02:00 - 03:22)
3. Musical Influence: The Avett Brothers
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the Avett Brothers' impact on "Swept Away." Robert Westenberg shares his long-standing admiration for the band, detailing his journey from being a fan to collaborating with them on the musical.
"Scott and Seth Avett... are two of the most gifted songwriters that we have... Their music is unbelievably raw and honest and to the point and vulnerable."
(03:22 - 05:07)
Robert recounts his first encounter with the Avett Brothers at a folk festival, illustrating the personal and professional fulfillment that the collaboration brings him.
"I think that's what's so special about this show, the fact that it has this kind of homegrown connection for me, it's unlike anything that I've ever worked on before."
(06:55 - 07:05)
4. The Emotional and Theatrical Depth of 'Swept Away'
The hosts and guests explore how "Swept Away" blends folk music with theatrical storytelling to create a deeply emotional experience. Robert emphasizes the show's ability to take audiences on an unpredictable journey without causing disorientation.
"At the core of it, it's a really basic human story about brotherhood and family and morality and mortality... it packs a real emotional punch."
(08:39 - 10:14)
He further highlights the raw emotional intensity of the performance, noting the consistent audience engagement and enthusiastic reactions during curtain calls.
"It's probably the most raw and emotional piece of theater that I've ever worked on as a performer."
(09:00 - 09:15)
5. Behind the Scenes: Ensemble Dynamics and Personal Stories
Robert shares a lighthearted moment about the cast's camaraderie and their humorous comparison to The Beatles, underscoring the tight-knit relationships within the ensemble.
"Wayne refers to us as the Beatles, mostly just because he Likes to call himself Ringo."
(10:14 - 11:23)
This camaraderie is pivotal in creating the authentic and cohesive performance that audiences love.
6. Transition to 'A Beautiful Noise' National Tour
The episode transitions to correspondent Paul Wontorek introducing his conversation with the stars of the national tour of "A Beautiful Noise," the Neil Diamond musical.
7. Insights from the 'A Beautiful Noise' Cast
Panelists Lisa Renee Pitts, Nick Fradiani, Adrian Blake Ensco, and Hannah Jewel Cohn discuss their experiences and the unique elements of touring with this Neil Diamond tribute.
Nick Fradiani shares his long-term commitment to the show and his enthusiasm for bringing Neil Diamond's music to a broader audience.
"I love the show... I just knew these people, a lot of people just can't get into the city. So I was excited to just share, you know, his story."
(12:31 - 14:15)
Adrian Blake Ensco emphasizes the depth and emotional weight of the musical, distinguishing it from typical jukebox musicals by integrating a strong narrative arc and therapeutic elements.
"It's much more than people think it's gonna be."
(12:07 - 13:02)
Hannah Jewel Cohn expresses her excitement about embodying real-life figures in the show and the impactful storytelling involved.
"Stepping into Robyn Herter and Amber Ardolino's shoes has been an absolute dream. It's so humbling."
(15:47 - 16:15)
8. The Timeless Appeal of Neil Diamond's Music
The cast reflects on the enduring legacy of Neil Diamond's music and its seamless integration into the theatrical experience. Personal anecdotes highlight their deep connections to his songs and the universal relatability that makes the musical resonate with diverse audiences.
"His music is kind of timeless... and I think the show is still going to be sort of gonna have that kind of power."
(21:31 - 22:14)
9. Anticipation for the National Tour
As the discussion wraps up, the cast shares their hopes and excitement for the upcoming tour, emphasizing the joy and celebratory nature of the show amidst challenging times.
"I just hope it sells really well... it's such a joyful, celebratory show that I think... it's just so great to be in a show where ... they're gonna have a great experience."
(24:21 - 25:10)
10. Closing Remarks
Host Tamsen Fadal concludes the episode by inviting listeners to tune in next time for more insights with Broadway's biggest stars.
"That's going to do it for this latest episode, but join us next time for more of Broadway's biggest stars."
(26:13 - 26:21)
Notable Quotes:
-
Robert Westenberg:
"Swept Away is a new musical with a book by John Logan and songs by the Avett Brothers."
(00:44 - 01:10) -
John Gallagher, Jr.:
"It's interesting to have that, you know, be able to really just create and have freedom to create that all. You own that character."
(02:05 - 03:22) -
Robert Westenberg:
"Scott and Seth Avett... are two of the most gifted songwriters that we have."
(03:42 - 05:07) -
Nick Fradiani:
"I love the show... I just knew these people, a lot of people just can't get into the city."
(12:31 - 14:15) -
Adrian Blake Ensco:
"It's much more than people think it's gonna be."
(12:07 - 13:02) -
Hannah Jewel Cohn:
"Stepping into Robyn Herter and Amber Ardolino's shoes has been an absolute dream. It's so humbling."
(15:47 - 16:15)
This episode of "The Broadway Show: Uncut" offers an intimate look into the creative processes behind two significant Broadway productions, "Swept Away" and "A Beautiful Noise." Through candid conversations with key cast members, listeners gain invaluable insights into the emotional depth, musical prowess, and collaborative spirit that drive these shows, making it a must-listen for theater enthusiasts and Broadway aficionados alike.