In this episode of Broadway Buzz, Pierce dives into the week’s hottest—and most controversial—Broadway news. From the Maybe Happy Ending team officially announcing Andrew Barth Feldman as the new Oliver, the backlash they've faced and their response. Then we discuss the not-so-positive audience reactions to Billy Porter’s Cabaret performance. Plus, we talk rumors of Cole Escola stepping into the 2026 Off-Broadway production of The Rocky Horror Show and unpack the backlash Cynthia Erivo is facing over her upcoming role as Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar.

This week on Broadway Buzz, we’re talking major returns, historic casting, vampire solo acts, and Tony Award robberies that still sting.

Jeremy Jordan is stepping back into that white suit as Jay Gatsby this fall, and fan hype is real. Plus, we’re celebrating Aisha Jackson joining The Great Gatsby as Daisy.

Across the pond, Cynthia Erivo is taking on Dracula — as everyone. 23 characters. One actress. One wild night in London theatre. We’ll break down Kip Williams’ “cine-theatre” style and why this production could redefine live performance.

And finally, let’s get into the Broadway heartbreaks that still haunt us — from Wicked losing to Avenue Q to Old Friends being completely shut out of the 2025 Tony noms.

Plus: our Quote of the Episode comes straight from Cynthia Erivo:

“I don’t need to be a star. I want to be a light.”

Me too Cynthia, me too.

Hit play and let’s get into the drama — both onstage and off.

The 2024 Tony Award nominations are out—and not everyone’s feeling the love. In this episode, we dive into the biggest surprises, the major snubs, and what this could mean for some shows' futures. We also discuss Real Women Have Curves, Redwood and Smash, Audra McDonald and Kara Young making Tony history, and why the nominations shift ticket sales. Plus, I share this week’s quote from the iconic André De Shields: “Slowly is the fastest way to get where you want to be.”

Follow @broadwaybuzzpod on Instagram and hit that follow button on Spotify so you don’t miss a thing!

0:00:00 Introduction and welcome

0:00:57 Quote of the day (André De Shields)

0:01:19 2025 Tony Award voter breakdown

0:02:42 Real Women Have Curves, Redwood & Smash

0:08:00 Nominations

0:21:00 Audra McDonald

0:23:00 Closing remarks and social media reminders

In this episode, Pierce dives into the extravagant $100K dressing room renovation for Jake Gyllenhaal, explores the history and impact of Titanic: The Musical. The episode features This Week in Broadway News, covering the latest industry updates and show premieres.

Pierce also discusses the ongoing drama surrounding Amber Ardolino's performance as Celine Dion in the off-Broadway Titanic production, which is set to close this June.

Weigh in on Jake's lavish dressing room and Amber's posts as Celine by following @BwayBuzzPodcast on Instagram.

0:00:00 Episode Introduction

0:01:24 Introduction to Titanic: The Musical discussion

0:09:58 Jake Gyllenhall $100k Dressing Room

0:15:30 Dressing Room Basics

0:25:33 Amber Ardainolo drama (playing Celine Dion in Titanique off-Broadway)

0:31:08 Episode wrap-up

In this episode of The Broadway Buzz, host Pierce

Ream sits down with rising Broadway star Angel Sigala. From his roots in Mexican folk dance to originating the role of Mateo Diaz in New York, New York, Angel shares his inspiring journey of pursuing the American dream through theatre. Hear about his path from Philadelphia's theater scene to Broadway, his experiences as a Latinx queer artist, and how representation matters in storytelling. A must-listen for theater lovers and those seeking inspiration from a passionate performer who brings authenticity and heart to the stage.

Broadway ticket prices are skyrocketing—$900 for Othello? $775 for Good Night, and Good Luck? Are Hollywood stars like Denzel Washington, Jake Gyllenhaal, and George Clooney making Broadway better, or just more expensive? In this episode of The Broadway Buzz, we break down the ticket price controversy, why these shows are in such high demand, and whether Broadway is becoming too exclusive for real fans. Plus, we dive into the latest Broadway rumors, including whispers about Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, and Miley Cyrus.

Would YOU pay $900 for a Broadway ticket? Send me your thoughts, hot takes, and ticket-buying tips over on Instagram @bwaybuzzpodcast—I might just feature your comment in a future episode!

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