The Broadway Show: Uncut – Episode: "Left On Tenth" Featuring Julianna Margulies and Peter Gallagher

Release Date: October 23, 2024
Host: Tamsen Fadal
Guests: Julianna Margulies, Peter Gallagher
Correspondent: Beth Stevens
Featured Author/Playwright: Delia Ephron

Introduction to "Left On Tenth"

In this episode of The Broadway Show: Uncut, host Tamsen Fadal delves into the captivating new play, "Left On Tenth", penned by Delia Ephron. This romantic comedy, rooted in true events and based on Ephron's memoir of the same name, explores themes of second chances in life and love. The play marks Julianna Margulies' return to Broadway after an 18-year hiatus and stars Peter Gallagher alongside her. The episode features in-depth interviews with both Margulies and Gallagher, followed by a conversation between correspondent Beth Stevens and playwright Delia Ephron.

Interview with Julianna Margulies and Peter Gallagher

Juliana Margulies' Return to Broadway:
Juliana Margulies expresses her immediate connection to the play upon reading the script. "[...] When I saw a story like this, I just felt I had to be a part of it," she shares (00:37).

Peter Gallagher's Connection with Delia Ephron:
Peter Gallagher recounts meeting Delia Ephron under serendipitous circumstances. "[...] Our dogs were sniffing each other on 10th Street, and that's how Delia and I first connected," Gallagher explains (00:46). This chance encounter blossomed into a friendship that eventually led to his casting in the play.

Balancing Family and Career:
Margulies discusses her initial hesitation to join a Broadway production due to the demanding schedule. "[...] I didn't want to sacrifice weekends with my family. But when 'Left On Tenth' came along, the timing was perfect," she reflects (02:30).

Themes of Hope and Second Chances:
Both actors emphasize the play's uplifting narrative. Gallagher notes, "[...] It's a story for everyone, about hope, joy, and the belief that older age doesn't mean the end," (03:36). Margulies adds, "We're all going to be there at some point. It's about embracing those moments of hope," (04:15).

Theatre as a Unifying Experience:
Gallagher highlights the collective energy of theater, stating, "[...] The audience and the cast share the same energy. It's a joyful experience in a divided world," (04:51).

Behind the Scenes – Relationships and camaraderie:
Margulies praises the supportive environment among the cast. "Our dressing rooms are next to each other; we throw arms around each other every morning. It's such an intimate and beautiful relationship," Gallagher shares (11:02). The actors speak highly of director Susan Stroman, commending her ability to weave magic into the production through dance and music.

Emotional Depth and Medical Themes:
The play delves into Delia's battle with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Gallagher describes a pivotal scene: "Delia begs Peter to let her go because she was battling Graft versus Host Disease. It's incredibly emotional," (14:06). This blend of romantic comedy with profound health struggles offers a unique theatrical experience.

Balancing Broadway and Personal Lives:
Gallagher discusses managing his role in a Broadway play while appearing in television productions like The Morning Show. "It's been a juggling act, but the play's timing allowed me to cherish moments with my son," he explains (20:12).

Reflections on Aging and Life:
A heartfelt conversation unfolds about embracing life's moments. Gallagher recounts his mother's wisdom: "Never waste a minute thinking you're getting old. It's a privilege," (20:47). Margulies resonates, "54 is coming up, and I'm happy about it," (21:28).

Universal Connections and Personal Growth:
Gallagher muses, "Through this play, I've learned not to sweat the small stuff and to choose joy over anger," (23:30). This personal growth mirrors the play's overarching message of resilience and hope.

Conversation with Playwright Delia Ephron

Understanding "Left On Tenth":
Delia Ephron discusses the multifaceted meaning behind the play's title. "Left on 10th represents both my physical journey home and the numerous left turns life took after my husband's death," she explains (24:32).

Incorporating Personal Trauma into Art:
Ephron shares the therapeutic process of transforming trauma into art. "The best way to handle trauma is to create something meaningful from it. Broadway became my miraculous left turn," she reflects (26:18).

Casting and Emotional Authenticity:
Ephron talks about the challenges and joys of casting her beloved dogs in the play. "The dogs are integral, and only the actors who handle them can truly connect," (25:30). She praises Juliana Margulies for her authentic portrayal, noting, "Sometimes I start crying in rehearsal because it feels so real," (31:19).

Collaboration with Susan Stroman:
Highlighting the creative synergy, Ephron remarks, "Collaborating with Susan Stroman allowed me to explore new dimensions of storytelling through dance and music," (33:23).

Embracing the Play's Journey:
Reflecting on the emotional roller coaster depicted in the play, Ephron states, "It's a journey of hope, pain, and ultimately joy. It embodies life itself," (34:40).

Notable Quotes

• Juliana Margulies: "The timing of everything was just perfect. It's a story about hope and joy, reminding us that even as we age, there's so much more to live for." (03:27)

• Peter Gallagher: "The theater is a place where everyone feels connected. It's rare to find such unity in today's world." (05:59)

• Peter Gallagher: "Never waste a minute thinking you're getting old. It's a privilege." (20:47)

• Delia Ephron: "Creating this play was my way of navigating through immense personal trauma and finding hope again." (26:18)

• Beth Stevens: "Juliana's portrayal is so vivid and heartfelt. It brings the story to life in the most authentic way." (31:19)

Conclusions and Final Thoughts

"Left On Tenth" stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit, blending humor and heartache into a narrative that resonates across ages. Through the collaborative efforts of Julianna Margulies, Peter Gallagher, and Delia Ephron, the play offers audiences a moving exploration of love, loss, and the power of second chances. As the actors share their personal connections and the transformative nature of the production, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate storytelling and emotional depth that Broadway continues to deliver.

Note: The timestamps correspond to moments within the transcript to provide context for the quoted sections.