Kelli is a bit too sweet and reserved for the Little Edie role in act two. Cheno will have a hard time disappearing into the role. Her personality is too strong.
Why would Benanti be wrong for the part in 10+ years? She's too young now, but could handle the classical singing in act one and then transform into the more character singing in act two.
I think Laura Benanti would be perfect in 8-10 years! I saw the original off broadway and when it opened on Broadway. It will be hard for anyone to touch Christine’s performance, but I have faith that Benanti could of anyone.
The range required for Little Edie is rather traditional. Ebersole sang the hell out of the score. People tend to forget how demanding the first act is; the show isn't only the iconic patter songs. "Will You" alone says much. I agree with two posters above that the first act is under-appreciated. "Daddy's Girl" is a brilliant song with a beautiful melodic line, to name but one. But I love the first act, and it's the one I tend to listen to in my car.
But oh, the character numbers are sublime. I'll never forget hearing "...Like My Corn" the first time. Master class.
"I'm a comedian, but in my spare time, things bother me." Garry Shandling