Closing Night

In this bonus episode of Closing Night, we revisit a compelling conversation with Broadway star Lauren Kennedy. While exploring the tricky politics and pressures of theater careers, Lauren candidly shares her experiences after Sunset Boulevard and Side Show that led into Lone Star Love. You heard only a couple of quotes from her in the main episode, but here you’ll get the full discussion of the intriguing yet chaotic behind-the-scenes story of a production that was derailed by unexpected challenges and the whims of a high-profile star. Lauren gives an insider's view on how creative visions can clash and projects can unravel despite the promise of a Broadway opening. The episode also touches on her connection with composer Jason Robert Brown and The Last Five Years, and how it prompted her transition into directing and producing, leading to her current role as the Executive Director of Theatre Raleigh. Listen to Lauren's full episode (and bonus episode) on Why I’ll Never Make It. Closing Night Theme Music created by Blake Stadnik. “Mountain Sun" by Jason Shaw is licensed under a Attribution 3.0 United States License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The idea of an Annie Part II had actually been floating around since 1982, while the original Annie was still on Broadway, and rather than a traditional sequel, the production was framed as a continuation of the original story, beginning six weeks after the events of Annie, with Miss Hannigan devising her revenge from prison. This continuing story was initially set to open on Broadway in 1983, just months after the original closed. However, it would take until June of 1989 before the show would finally announce an opening date, first in Washington, DC then on Broadway. However, what started out as Miss Hannigan’s Revenge became a revenge of a different kind altogether. And the events that followed underscore a broader truth about Broadway (one that resonates throughout the episodes of this podcast): that even the most seasoned and award-winning of creators can still produce a flop. So was the tumultuous journey and hard-knocked life of Annie 2. Click here to find a transcript for this episode and a full list of materials and resources used. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s a unique category of musicals that only come around once a year. And it is this annual tradition that makes Christmas musicals so special. They're not just a way to celebrate the holiday season—they tap into that universal feeling of nostalgia, warmth, and tradition. These shows bring people together in a way that few others can, offering an escape into a world of joy, wonder, and yes, a little bit of holiday magic. Whether it’s through music, story, or the sheer spectacle, Christmas on Broadway has a way of making the season feel even more magical. From the big, iconic productions that have defined the Christmas season like White Christmas and Elf to lesser-known gems like Here's Love and Flahooley that still manage to capture the spirit of the holidays, we’re going to look at the shows that not only helped define what Christmas can mean on Broadway but also why they remain so beloved long after the final curtain falls. Check out my episode on Patrick Stewart and and his one-man version of A Christmas Carol. --- Click here for a transcript and full list of the resources and materials used in this episode. Closing Night is a production of WINMI Media. I'm Patrick Oliver Jones, host and executive producer. Dan Delgado is editor and producer, not only for this podcast but also for his own movie podcast called The Industry. Theme music for Closing Night composed and created by Blake Stadnik. I’ll be back in the new year with season 2 of Closing Night. I know, it’s taken awhile, but I think you’ll find its been worth the wait when we talk about more shows as they head toward Closing Night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Few musicals have captured the hearts of audiences quite like Disney's ALADDIN. But did you know the beloved stage adaptation of the classic animation almost never came to be? This podcast pulls back the curtain on the untold story of ALADDIN's journey from conception to Broadway triumph. Join 11-time Emmy Award winning entertainment journalist for NY1 and NY1OnStage host Frank DiLella on an in-depth exploration that begins with the initial spark of a stage adaptation. We'll delve into the challenges faced during out-of-town tryouts, the unwavering determination to overcome them, and the celebration of reaching over a decade on Broadway – a remarkable feat in the world of musical theatre. This captivating series features exclusive conversations with the original cast and creative team behind ALADDIN including Alan Menken, Casey Nicholaw, James Monroe Iglehart, Adam Jacobs, Courtney Reed, Sonya Balsara, Adi Roy and more as they recount their experiences with the show. Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan, a theatre enthusiast, or simply captivated by the magic of storytelling, this series is a must-listen. Unveil the untold story of ALADDIN and discover the passion, resilience, and drive that created a Broadway sensation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The second season of Closing Night is set to premiere this June. But while we all eagerly await the curtain rising on our next act, here's a story about a show that famously closed on its opening night. There are actual plans to do a future season about Broadway productions that only lasted one performance. But now there's one show to take off the list of potential episodes, all because of the podcast being sharing today, a podcast that feels like a time machine, whisking us away to different eras, and immersing us in captivating stories of yesteryear. It’s called History Daily, but it isn't your average history podcast. It's a real treasure trove of tales from the past, delivered straight to your ears every weekday. From monumental battles to the quirkiest fashion trends, from groundbreaking scientific discoveries to the drama of politics, sports, and even theater—History Daily covers it all. Now, back in December, the host Lindsay Graham and his production team over at History Daily featured an episode from this podcast (remember the one all about Andrew Lloyd Webber's short-lived Broadway production of The Woman in White?). Lindsay talked about that production and shared the episode with his listeners. So now it's my turn to share one of their episodes. Much like Closing Night, History Daily is more than just a recounting of dates and names—it's about the lives, the struggles, and the triumphs of those who came before us. And you're about to hear a tale so legendary in the world of theater that it's become synonymous with failure: a play called Moose Murders. So let's journey back to February 22, 1983, as we unravel the mystery behind one of Broadway's biggest flops. It's a reminder that even the darkest nights in theater history have a story worth telling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Five years ago, the enchanting musical The Band's Visit closed on Broadway (April 7, 2019) after capturing hearts with its simplicity and profound storytelling. Composed by David Yazbek and written by Itamar Moses, it emerged as a masterpiece in the 2017-2018 season, transcending contemporary Broadway norms. At the 2018 Tony Awards, this gem earned 11 nominations and secured 10 wins, including Best Musical, triumphing over big blockbuster shows like SpongeBob Squarepants, Mean Girls, and Frozen, and running for 598 performances. Amidst current Middle East tensions, The Band's Visit stands out as a show that explores human connection and shows how music can bridges the divides between us. So enjoy an encore presentation of my 2018 interview with Jeff Theiss, associate conductor of The Band's Visit. We delve into the musical's score, its unique storytelling, and how it transcends political divisions to focus on our shared human experiences, reminding us of our profound commonality. Follow on Instagram and listen to Closing Night on your favorite podcast app. --- Closing Night is a production of WINMI Media with Patrick Oliver Jones as host and executive producer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices