Good morning. Today, we explore an Off Michael Cohen Broadway musical enthusiastically endorsed by Donald Trump’s former fixer during a press preview. Additionally, we delve into a lawsuit against Mayor Eric Adams, a case in which the City Council might unexpectedly participate.
Michael Cohen
On this day, when a judge has scheduled March 25 for the criminal trial of Donald Trump, the spotlight falls on his erstwhile fixer, Michael Cohen. Cohen, a key figure in the trial, took the unusual step of promoting an Off Broadway production satirizing the former president and several women associated with him.
The musical, titled “Five: The Parody Musical,” revolves around Trump, his two ex-wives, current wife Melania Trump, daughter Ivanka, and Stormy Daniels. Daniels, a porn actress, received $130,000 from Cohen to remain silent about her alleged affair with Trump.
Cohen assumed the role of Master of Ceremonies (M.C.) at a press preview for “Five,” introducing cast members who performed songs from the production. Prior to the preview, he expressed his appreciation for the script, deeming it “clever and funny.”
The creative minds behind “Five” are Moshiel Newman Daphna and Shimmy Braun, two gay men with Orthodox Jewish backgrounds—one a drag performer, the other a former mortgage loan officer turned playwright and producer. Inspired by the success of “Six,” a Broadway musical centered on Henry VIII’s wives, they sought to spotlight the women associated with Trump in “Five.” The musical, featuring music and additional lyrics by co-lyricist Billy Recce, aims to give these women their moment in the limelight. Previews commence tonight at Theater 555 on 555 West 42nd Street.
Cohen, who pleaded guilty in 2018 to campaign finance violations and served prison time, shared insights into his involvement with “Five.” He mentioned working on his material, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in capturing his unique sense of humor. Cohen clarified that his role involves brief moments between acts rather than a full comedic routine.
During our conversation, Cohen touched upon the legal challenges surrounding Trump, playfully comparing it to a game of Whac-a-Mole with subpoenas. He acknowledged the irony of scheduling the press event on the same day as a hearing before Justice Juan Merchan, considering Trump’s frequent legal entanglements. The ongoing case, brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, accuses Trump of falsifying records related to payments to Cohen for hush money.
Cohen’s involvement with “Five” began when public relations agents approached him to read the script and, if he liked it, host the press conference. While he doesn’t have a role in the show, it references him due to his connection with Stormy Daniels. Reflecting on the production, Cohen drew parallels between “Five” and “Six,” noting the comedic rendition’s use of Donald Trump instead of Henry V—correcting himself to Henry VIII.
As Cohen considered his monologue for the press conference, he blended humor with a serious message, stressing the real consequences tied to Trump’s legal troubles and the broader implications for democracy. Cohen’s hope for justice, delivered not just metaphorically with a well-done steak and ketchup but with tangible repercussions, underlines the gravity of the situation.
In a concluding note, Cohen requested to hear his words back, signaling his intention to use the statement verbatim.
