I always felt that 8 performances per week was very difficult to maintain with consistency, especially with a star-driven production. It would be better if the schedule for Broadway shows could be reduced to 6 performances per week. It may take longer to recoup investments but it would help performers to better preserve their energy level and perhaps there would be a significant reduction in absences.
ErmengardeStopSniveling said: "RIP to a wonderful singerand a rare remaining star of Broadway in the 1950s (along with Chita, Julie, and a few others).
His one Broadway appearance was ME AND JULIET, and also headlined the tours of BYE BYE BIRDIE and ON A CLEAR DAY, and appeared in TV adaptations of MATTRESS and KISS ME KATE.In summer stock, he appeared in musicals like The Fantasticks, On The Town, and She Loves Me.
More notably, he sang the chart-topping "Ballad of Davy Crockett" and appeared on 2,000+ episodes of Days Of Our Lives (where he was employed at the time of his death).
A while back, I was surprised to read Bill Hayes had said that, in all the time that he did ME AND JULIET, he and Isabel Bigley never once had a conversation off-stage. Interesting that two people can work so closely together on a daily basis and not really connect at all when not performing.
The plantation scene and the lyrics in the title song are problematic. Perhaps Mame could meet a wealthy western rancher and be a "fish out of water" in a ranch setting and the lyrics of the title song could be changed to fit that setting. Not sure if changes like these would be allowed by the estate of Jerry Herman.
As a fan of Alice Faye, I was thrilled when she was signed to do the revival of GOOD NEWS. It toured successfully for almost a year but ran for only 16 performances on Broadway (12/23/74 to 1/4/75).
SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS with Debby Boone had a well-received 18 month tour prior to opening on Broadway where it had a 5 performance run (7/8/82 to 7/11/82).
Lucie Arnaz not being nominated for THEY'RE PLAYING OUR SONG.
VICTOR/VICTORIA not receiving nominations for Rachel York, Scenic Design and Lighting Design. I guess the show itself was considered disappointing but nominations for CHRONICLE OF A DEATH FORETOLD (32 Performances) and SWINGING ON A STAR (96 Performances) as Best Musical were puzzling to me.
In 2002, there was a musical stage version of WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO BABY JANE? with Millicent Martin as Jane Hudson in Houston. I don't believe it played anywhere else. I saw a Youtube video of Ms. Martin performing one of the songs from the show.
Seb28 said: "PennClassic said: "PATTI LUPONE: She may be very talented and an acclaimed performer but there is an intensity and sharpness about her persona that is unappealing to me and, therefore, I have not been a fan."
For me it's the complete opposite. I like her because of her persona. She is honest and sincere, which is rare in showbusiness. A breath of fresh air if you ask me. Unfortunately many people can't handle realnes
I know that the Kennedy Center includes people from various performing arts each year but sometimes the selections and omissions are quite puzzling. I read that one of my favorites, Doris Day, had always turned down the honor. I do agree with those who feel that Glenn Close and Liza Minnelli are deserving. When looking at all the past honorees, I was surprised that Mary Tyler Moore was never chosen. Just like other awards, I guess the choices will always be ope
Check out this video from the BROADWAY SHOW LEAGUE SOFTBALL GAME in April 1961. It features Julie Andrews, Lucille Ball, Robert Goulet and Joe E. Brown. Fun to see!
I saw VICTOR/VICTORIA in Chicago during its tryout run. I enjoyed the show very much plus I was delighted to see Julie Andrews perform in person. She was wonderful. It did go through various changes prior to Broadway, which is typical during a tryout period. I remember being impressed with the overall look of the show (sets, lighting, costumes) and was surprised that they were ignored by the Tony voters. I also thought that Rachel York did a great job.&nb
THE BOOK OF MORMON and CATS: They just didn't live up to my expectations or all the hype and awards (as others have mentioned). The productions that I saw had wonderful performers but the actual shows left me disappointed.
PATTI LUPONE: She may be very talented and an acclaimed performer but there is an intensity and sharpness about her persona that is unappealing
I would be delighted to see Estelle Parsons receive a Lifetime Achievement Tony. She is 95 and has had a long and productive theatre career. She has been in numerous stage productions (Broadway; Off-Broadway; Regional) and has also directed shows. She has received 5 Tony nominations and was inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame. I think she definitely qualifies for the award.
As evidenced by my profile picture, I enjoy the cast recording from WILDCAT. It has a great overture and fun, spirited songs including the popular HEY, LOOK ME OVER!. I must give special mention to the song, TALL HOPE, which is beautifully done by the men's chorus. I think Lucille Ball and the cast did a fine job on the album.
There are several good suggestions here as to who could play MAME. However, the title number would have to be revised in today's world. Perhaps Mame could meet a rich rancher from the West and be a "fish out of water" at a ranch locale with the lyrics of the song changed to suit that setting.
As a Lucille Ball fan, I have watched the movie version several times. I recall seeing it at a theater in my hometown when
