We are looking optimistically into the new year. We are hopeful that our community will thrive and we are looking forward to what is ahead…We may also be crazy.

SHOWNOTES:

Summary

In this conversation, Darnelle Radford and Mitch Weiss discuss the relevance and longevity of musicals. They explore the idea of whether some musicals have a sell-by date and the importance of interpretation and updating in keeping shows fresh. They also delve into the role of directors and playwrights in reimagining and reinventing shows, as well as the value of post-show discussions and conversations. The conversation highlights the balance between respecting the original work and finding new meaning in familiar shows. They conclude by discussing the parallels between sequels in film and living in the world of a show. The conversation explores various topics related to the theater industry, including sequels and part two productions, the structure of acts in musicals, interpreting controversial content, reimagining songs and shows, revivals and remakes, new perspectives in casting, utilizing dark theaters, and predictions for the future of nonprofit theaters.

Takeaways

Sequels and part two productions can provide a fresh take on familiar stories and characters. The structure of acts in musicals can create a new storyline and reason to watch the show. Interpreting controversial content in theater requires careful consideration and adaptation. Reimagining songs and shows can offer a different perspective and engage audiences in new ways.

Revivals and remakes can be hit or miss, with some classics standing the test of time. New perspectives in casting, such as ignoring skin color or gender, can bring a fresh interpretation to a production.

Utilizing dark theaters for alternative performances or recordings can generate revenue and keep the space active. The future of nonprofit theaters may involve combining efforts, exploring digital subscriptions, and thinking beyond traditional models.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and New Year Optimism

01:18 The Relevance of Musicals

04:17 Interpreting and Updating Musicals

08:16 The Role of Directors and Playwrights

13:14 Post-Show Discussions and Conversations

21:28 Reimagining and Reinventing Shows

25:21 Balancing Respect for the Original and Interpretation

29:08 Personal Preferences and the Value of Theater

34:59 Finding New Meaning in Familiar Shows

37:46 The Longevity and Adaptation of Shows

40:30 Sequels and Living in the World of a Show

41:31 Sequels and Part Two

42:17 Act One and Act Two

42:57 Interpreting Controversial Content

43:20 Reimagining Songs and Shows

44:41 Revivals and Remakes

45:39 New Perspectives in Casting

46:36 Utilizing Dark Theaters

51:31 Predictions for 2024

53:46 The Future of Nonprofit Theaters

LINKS:

Merrily We Roll Along

https://merrilyonbroadway.com/#home

Broadway Shows in 2024

https://www.broadway.com/shows/tickets/?category=broadway&view_all=true

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