Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford

Bless the Coal-black Hearts of the Broadway Critics

May 20, 2022

Explore the rollercoaster journey of Billy Joel's musical, where initial criticism threatened disaster. Discover how choreographer Twyla Tharp embraced failure to turn 'Movin’ Out' around before its Broadway debut. Quirky anecdotes about bikini photo shoots contrast with the serious pressures of theatrical production. Resilience and adaptability shine through as lessons learned parallel the flight of innovators like Paul McCready. Witness the evolution of a Broadway show through creative struggles, culminating in a triumphant opening night.

33:57

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Episode notes

Intro

3min

The Dance of Failure: Lessons from 'Moving Out'

11min

Bikinis and Broadway: A Snowy Tale

6min

The Flight of Resilience

8min

Bikinis and Broadway: A Tale of Two Worlds

4min

Navigating Creative Challenges in Broadway Production

5min

The Evolution of Broadway: Transforming 'Moving Out'

5min

When Billy Joel agreed to let dance legend Twyla Tharp turn his songs into a Broadway musical it seemed like a surefire hit. But in previews, Movin’ Out was panned by the critics. It was soon headed for Broadway and was set to be an expensive and embarrassing failure.So how could Twyla turn things around and avert disaster before opening night?

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