Podcast Summary: The Broadway Show: Uncut – Episode: 'Just In Time' - Jonathan Groff is Back on Broadway

Introduction

The Broadway Show: Uncut, hosted by Tamsen Fadal, delves into the vibrant world of Broadway with extended interviews and behind-the-scenes insights. In the episode titled 'Just In Time' - Jonathan Groff is Back on Broadway, released on May 5, 2025, the spotlight is on Jonathan Groff's return to Broadway in the immersive musical Just In Time, which chronicles the life of the legendary Bobby Darin. The episode features conversations with Groff, choreographer Shannon Lewis, and correspondents Paul Wontorek and Perry Sook.

Jonathan Groff’s Role and Connection to Bobby Darin

The episode opens with Tamsen Fadal introducing Jonathan Groff, highlighting his recent Tony Award in 2024 for Merrily We Roll Along and his new role in Just In Time. Groff portrays Bobby Darin, a multifaceted performer whose life story is both inspiring and tragic.

Interview at the Brill Building

Paul Wontorek and Jonathan Groff conduct their interview in the historic Brill Building's corner office, once occupied by Bobby Darin himself.

• Paul Wontorek [00:46]: "So, Jonathan, here we are. We're on the ninth floor of the Brill Building in this beautiful corner office... This was once the office of Bobby Darin."

• Jonathan Groff [02:11]: Groff discusses his initial connection to Darin, emphasizing their contrasting backgrounds—him from Amish country, Pennsylvania, and Darin a playboy crooner. He explains how performing Darin's music at the 92nd Street Y sparked his fascination and deep emotional connection to Darin's passion for performing.

• Jonathan Groff [02:17]: "I really connect to that deep, primal urge... His music, like 'Splish Splash' and his transition to standards, really showcases his ambition to push himself into different genres."

Groff elaborates on Darin's versatility and his own admiration for Darin's ability to navigate various musical styles, from pop hits to folk music, reflecting his relentless pursuit of artistic expression.

Exploring Bobby Darin’s Life and Legacy

The conversation shifts to the complexities of Darin's life, including his early death at 37 and lifelong health struggles.

• Groff [05:01]: Describes the structure of Just In Time, starting in an immersive nightclub setting that mirrors Darin's superpower of living in the present moment despite his frail health. Groff shares, "He was born with a weak heart... and he had this ambition to make it as fast as he possibly could before the clock ran out."

He touches on Darin's personal struggles, spiritual awakening, and significant relationships, aiming to capture the essence of Darin's vibrant yet tumultuous life. The musical's live band enhances the storytelling, allowing the audience to experience Darin's musical journey in real-time.

Personal Reflections and Gavin Creel’s Memorial

Jonathan Groff opens up about his personal life, particularly his relationship with Gavin Creel, and how Creel influenced his journey, including coming out of the closet.

• Groff [10:57]: Reflects on Creel's impact: "He changed my life. We were dating, and he was so out... I would rather feel this feeling than ever be on a TV show or do a movie."

Groff describes the profound loss of Creel and how it intertwines with the themes of living fully present in Just In Time, enhancing his portrayal of Darin's relentless pursuit of life despite impending mortality.

Shannon Lewis on Choreography and Musicality

The episode introduces Shannon Lewis, the choreographer for Just In Time, who discusses her approach to blending Darin's authentic style with Broadway's dynamic energy.

• Shannon Lewis [17:31]: "Bobby Darin’s music lends itself to dance so perfectly and beautifully... We really thought to theatricalize it, to bring it to the live stage that way and not just view it on a YouTube video to actually feel the electricity."

Lewis highlights the inspiration drawn from 1960s performances, particularly the show Hullabaloo, emphasizing the importance of capturing the era's vibrant spirit while infusing her unique choreographic style. She praises Groff's dedication to mastering Broadway dance, noting his rapid improvement and innate performance skills.

Collaboration with Director Alex Timbers

Shannon Lewis speaks highly of director Alex Timbers, describing him as a "visionary" and a "generous collaborator." Their synergy during the initial dance workshops was immediate, allowing for a seamless integration of choreography and direction that promises a captivating live experience.

• Lewis [19:15]: "Jonathan really did the work. He's really musical. He can make the shapes with his body. It's really thrilling for me to get to work with him like that."

Advice for Aspiring Broadway Artists

Shannon Lewis shares her insights on achieving longevity in the competitive Broadway scene, stressing the importance of perseverance and creating one's own opportunities, especially highlighted during the pandemic.

• Lewis [23:50]: "Just make your own opportunities and figure out who you are and really ask yourself that, and then just go for it."

Her journey from dancer to choreographer serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with an invitation to listeners to visit broadway.com for tickets to Just In Time, encapsulating the show's essence as a celebration of Bobby Darin's life through Jonathan Groff's compelling performance and Shannon Lewis's dynamic choreography.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Jonathan Groff [02:11]: "I really relate to that deep, primal urge... to perform."

• Groff [05:01]: "He was born with a weak heart... he had this ambition to make it as fast as he possibly could before the clock ran out."

• Lewis [17:31]: "We really thought to theatricalize it, to bring it to the live stage that way and not just view it on a YouTube video to actually feel the electricity."

• Shannon Lewis [23:50]: "Just make your own opportunities and figure out who you are and really ask yourself that, and then just go for it."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Broadway Show: Uncut offers an in-depth exploration of Jonathan Groff's transformative portrayal of Bobby Darin in Just In Time. Through heartfelt discussions and expert insights from choreographer Shannon Lewis, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the musical's creative process, its emotional depth, and the collaborative spirit that brings Darin's electrifying legacy to life on Broadway.