The Broadway Show: Uncut – Episode Summary: 'Some Like It Hot' - Now on Tour!

Release Date: January 16, 2025

Introduction

In this vibrant episode of "The Broadway Show: Uncut," host Tamsen Fadal delves into the much-anticipated Broadway musical adaptation of the classic 1959 Hollywood film, "Some Like It Hot." The episode provides listeners with an in-depth look at the creative minds behind the modernized rendition, exploring how the production reimagines the beloved story for contemporary audiences while infusing it with fresh perspectives and diverse narratives.

Interview with Writers Amber Ruffin and Matthew Lopez

Paul Wontorek initiates a conversation with writers Amber Ruffin and Matthew Lopez, who collaborated to breathe new life into "Some Like It Hot."

• Collaboration During COVID (00:43 - 01:04):

  Both Ruffin and Lopez embarked on their writing journey during the COVID-19 pandemic, never having met in person prior to working on the musical.

  Amber Ruffin (00:48): "We had never met before Some Like It Hot."

  Matthew Lopez (00:50): "We never even met after we started working on something like it."

• Creative Synergy and Vision (01:29 - 05:25):

  Lopez emphasizes their mutual desire to transform the original narrative into something "celebratory and inclusive and respectful and fun." They aimed to modernize the story without being tethered to the constraints of the original, allowing creativity to flourish within set limitations.

  Matthew Lopez (01:29): "We found what we wanted to say and what could be possible in it."

  The writing process involved numerous alternate titles before settling on "Some Like It Hot," solidifying the show's identity.

  Matthew Lopez (05:20): "We had a title. We just kept going."

• Reimagining Characters and Themes (06:04 - 09:34):

  The duo sought to infuse the narrative with their own lived experiences, shifting away from the original portrayal by Billy Wilder and I.A.L. Diamond. They aimed to make the characters more relatable and reflective of today's societal norms, particularly focusing on themes of transformation and identity.

  Matthew Lopez (08:42): "We see the world differently and we have a different idea of what is funny and what isn't funny."

Amber Ruffin discusses the importance of authentic representation, highlighting the diverse cast and the opportunity to create nuanced characters without relying on stereotypes.

Amber Ruffin (10:56): "We just got to write a human being... and she could just be all of the flaws and all of the good things."

Diversity and Modernization of the Story

The conversation shifts to the significance of diversity in the new production. Ruffin underscores the liberation from the "white lens," allowing the narrative to unfold organically with characters that resonate with a 21st-century audience.

Matthew Lopez (12:03): "This is who we are when no one's watching. This is who we are."

The writers highlight the transformation of characters, particularly focusing on mutual relationships and personal growth, moving away from the static portrayals of the original film.

Insights from Songwriters Marc Shaiman and Scott Whitman

Paul Wontorek introduces the songwriting duo Marc Shaiman and Scott Whitman, who share their approach to crafting the musical score for "Some Like It Hot."

• Navigating Existing Adaptations (19:31 - 21:09):

  Shaiman and Whitman discuss the challenge of creating a new musical adaptation amidst previous versions, notably "Sugar" by Jules Stein and Bob Merrill. They aimed to distinguish their work by introducing a fresh narrative twist, such as portraying the lead character, Sugar, as a Black woman aspiring to Hollywood stardom.

  Scott Whitman (20:21): "What if Sugar was black? And what if it's... Some Like It Hot for now?"

• Musical Influences and Innovations (22:34 - 26:43):

  Drawing inspiration from swing music and iconic artists like Ella Fitzgerald and Lena Horne, the duo infused the score with a rich blend of 1930s and 1940s musical styles. They also incorporated original compositions that pay homage to the era's musical landscape while aligning with the show's contemporary themes.

  Marc Shaiman (23:12): "Ride out the Storm is our salute to that."

  The team also addressed how certain iconic lines from the original film, such as "Nobody's Perfect," were thoughtfully reimagined to fit the musical narrative without relying solely on the source material's punchlines.

Production Design and Audience Reception

Ruffin and Lopez express their admiration for the show's aesthetics, commending the set design, costumes, and lighting that bring the story to life on stage.

Amber Ruffin (15:03): "All the design, everything you look at is gorgeous."

Ruffin shares her personal exhilaration upon seeing the production in the theater, highlighting the inclusive and welcoming Broadway community.

Amber Ruffin (15:24): "It absolutely feels insane... it's such a freaking thrill."

Behind-the-Scenes Anecdotes and Creative Process

The writers reminisce about their collaborative moments during rehearsals, illustrating the joy and spontaneity that characterized their creative process.

Matthew Lopez (17:33): "We really did."

A memorable instance involves the creation of a pivotal line in the show, showcasing the organic development of dialogue that resonates humorously with audiences.

Matthew Lopez (18:07): "Every time I hear that in the show, I'm like, I remember just making that with you in the moment."

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, the performers share snippets of original songs, offering listeners a taste of the musical's spirited and diverse soundtrack. The episode concludes with Tamsen Fadal encouraging the audience to experience "Some Like It Hot" live on Broadway.

Notable Quotes:

• Matthew Lopez (01:29): "If it ain't fun, then no one's gonna come."
• Amber Ruffin (10:56): "She could just be all of the flaws and all of the good things."
• Marc Shaiman (22:34): "Ride out the Storm is our salute to that."
• Matthew Lopez (26:00): "Steven Spielberg... he would have loved it."

Key Takeaways:

• Modern Reimagining: "Some Like It Hot" revitalizes a classic narrative with contemporary themes, diverse casting, and nuanced character development.

• Collaborative Creativity: The partnership between Ruffin, Lopez, Shaiman, and Whitman exemplifies a fusion of unique perspectives, resulting in a dynamic and inclusive production.

• Musical Heritage: The score pays homage to golden-era music while introducing original compositions that enhance the storytelling.

• Inclusive Broadway: The production underscores Broadway's evolving landscape, embracing diversity and fostering an open, welcoming community for both creators and audiences.

For those eager to witness this innovative adaptation, "Some Like It Hot" promises a blend of humor, heart, and high-energy performances that honor the legacy of the original while carving out its own distinct identity.