Step into the high-stakes world of Oedipus, the classic Greek tragedy reimagined in a bold new Broadway revival. Written nearly 2,500 years ago, the story follows a rising leader determined to uncover the truth behind a crisis, only to discover a devastating secret about his own identity. This modern adaptation by Robert Icke places the myth in a contemporary political setting filled with media pressure and looming revelation.

Host Andrew Cole is joined by guest co-host Mark Fisher to break down the production's standout performances from Mark Strong and Lesley Manville, its striking modern staging, and the big ideas driving the adaptation. They explore what thrills, what challenges belief, and whether this ambitious revival ultimately delivers.

For fans searching for an Oedipus Broadway review, a theater deep dive, or a thoughtful post-show recap, this episode offers sharp takes, big themes, and a final verdict on this daring production.

*****

CHAPTERS

00:00 - Intro / Welcome Mark Fisher

13:50 - Setting the Stage

15:02 - Hot Takes

38:49 - Big Feels

48:21 - Should You See It?

52:16 - Outro

*****

SEE OEDIPUS

Get Tickets: https://oedipustheplay.com/ticket-information/

*****

GUEST HOST LOVE

Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fisher-57b42440/

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Learn More About Business for Unicorns: https://businessforunicorns.com/

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Listen to the Business for Unicorns Podcast: https://businessforunicorns.com/business-for-unicorns-podcast/

*****

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It's time to dive into the sunny, beach-side world of Mamma Mia!, the beloved jukebox musical built around the iconic hits of ABBA. With music and lyrics by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus and a book by Catherine Johnson, the Broadway favorite has returned to the Winter Garden Theatre in a joyful revival that follows Sophie, a young bride who secretly invites three possible fathers to her Greek island wedding.

Host Andrew Cole is joined by guest co-host Ben Grossman, a lifelong Mamma Mia! superfan who's seen the show across continents and productions. Together they break down what makes this revival sing from standout performances (especially a scene-stealing Tanya), to the enduring charm of ABBA's songbook, to the show's balance of camp, heart, and pure escapist fun. They also explore the musical's modern themes of chosen family and friendship.

For Broadway fans searching for a Mamma Mia! revival review, a musical theater deep dive, or a joyful post-show recap, this episode delivers big laughs, big feels, and a verdict on whether this fan favorite is still worth seeing today.

*****

CHAPTERS

0:00 - Intro / Welcome Ben Grossman

4:22 - Setting the Stage

7:02 - Hot Takes

32:36 - Big Feels

41:44 - Should You See It?

50:25 - Outro

*****

SEE MAMMA MIA!

Tickets to Broadway: https://mammamiabway.com/tickets

Ticket to the National Tour: https://www.mammamiathetour.com/#tour

*****

GUEST HOST LOVE

Learn More About Ben: https://www.ben-grossman.com/

Shop Otis' Latest Fashions: buyotis.com

*****

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The debut episode of Critical Darling dives into the Broadway revival of Chess—the cult-favorite musical thriller set against Cold War politics, international intrigue, and a high-stakes chess tournament where the real battles aren't only on the board. With music by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus (ABBA) and lyrics by Tim Rice, Chess delivers a pop-rock score packed with iconic songs, including "One Night in Bangkok," "Nobody's Side," and "Anthem."

Host Andrew Cole is joined by guest co-host Steph Wilberding for a smart, funny, post-show breakdown of what's clicking in this new production, especially its sleek, concert-meets-book-musical staging, the sheer power of the orchestra and vocals, and the way the revival leans into the political minefield with a knowing wink. They also spotlight the show's scene-stealing narrator figure, the Arbiter played by Bryce Pinkham, whose commentary helps guide the audience through the tension, satire, and spectacle.

For Broadway fans searching for a Chess review, a Chess revival recap, or a musical theater deep dive, this episode is a lively curtain-call conversation built for people who love big voices, big themes, and hot takes that stay rooted in what's happening onstage.

*****

SEE CHESS ON BROADWAY

Tickets to Chess: https://chessbroadway.com/tickets

*****

GUEST HOST LOVE

Follow Steph on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realwithsteph/

Follow Thanks I Needed That on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6NASXUYViD9tsXCGafKbn7?si=6fhJCvCfR_WhFA-P1F1u2A

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*****

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