Picture a Broadway insider who dishes the juiciest gossip and chronicles the Great White Way’s dazzling history—meet Michael Riedel! This American broadcaster, theatre critic, and author has spent decades as a sharp-eyed observer of New York’s theatre scene, turning backstage drama into must-read stories. With his incisive wit and deep love for Broadway, Riedel’s books like Razzle Dazzle and Singular Sensation have cemented his reputation as a leading voice in American theatre.
Born in 1966, Riedel’s journey from a curious student to a Broadway powerhouse is as captivating as the shows he covers. His unique blend of snappy prose, insider scoops, and historical insight makes him a storyteller you can’t ignore. Let’s pull back the curtain on his life and legacy!
The Making of Michael Riedel
Michael Riedel was born on December 24, 1966, and grew up with a passion for theatre that would shape his career. After a brief stint at Johns Hopkins University, he transferred to Columbia University, where he dove into the world of musical theatre, acting in plays and hosting a radio show. Graduating magna cum laude in 1989 with a history degree, Riedel’s early career included an internship with Broadway producer Liz McCann and a role as managing editor at TheaterWeek magazine. By 1993, he was penning gossip columns for The Daily News, and in 1998, he joined the New York Post, where his theatre column became a must-read for Broadway fans.
Michael Riedel’s Unforgettable Stories
Riedel’s writing is a front-row seat to Broadway’s highs and lows, blending sharp wit with meticulous research. His first book, Razzle Dazzle: The Battle for Broadway (2015), is a vibrant history of Broadway from the 1960s to the 1980s. It spotlights the Shubert Organization’s revival of a crumbling theatre district, weaving tales of corruption, ambition, and hits like A Chorus Line. The book won the 2015 Marfield Prize and earned comparisons to William Goldman’s The Season for its juicy, page-turning style.
In 2020, Riedel followed up with Singular Sensation: The Triumph of Broadway, diving into the 1990s—a transformative decade for the Great White Way. From the fall of British mega-musicals like Sunset Boulevard to the rise of American originals like Rent and Angels in America, Riedel captures the era’s drama with gossip, economic insights, and heartfelt anecdotes. His style is breezy yet authoritative, making complex theatre history accessible to casual readers and diehard fans alike.
Beyond books, Riedel’s New York Post columns and radio work, including co-hosting Len Berman and Michael Riedel in the Morning on WOR, showcase his knack for storytelling. Whether skewering a flop or celebrating a hit, his voice is unmistakably bold, earning him both fans and foes in the theatre world.
Why Michael Riedel Matters
Michael Riedel’s impact on theatre journalism is undeniable. His books have redefined how we understand Broadway’s evolution, spotlighting the producers, stars, and scandals that shaped it. By blending gossip with historical context, he’s made theatre history as thrilling as a Tony-winning musical. His work reminds us that Broadway isn’t just about art—it’s a gritty, glamorous business that mirrors New York’s resilience, especially post-9/11, when theatre helped heal the city.
Riedel’s fearless commentary and love for the stage have made him a polarizing yet essential figure. For theatre lovers, he’s a guide to Broadway’s past and a champion of its future, proving that the show always goes on.
- Born: December 24, 1966
- Key Works: Razzle Dazzle (2015), Singular Sensation (2020)
- Awards: 2015 Marfield Prize for Razzle Dazzle
- Notable Role: Theatre columnist for New York Post since 1998
Snag Razzle Dazzle or Singular Sensation and dive into Michael Riedel’s electrifying take on Broadway’s glitz and grit!