Yeah, I also found that John Hill seemed like he was on "auto-pilot." He was still enjoyable, but he was pretty much eclipsed by Michael Arden, who gave the most stellar performance, IMO. Michael is truly a find - he's young enough for the role, yet still possessing really refined acting and singing skills, plus he has irresistable stage presence.
Another reason to replace John Hill is an obvious one: he just looks too old for the part. It's kinda hard to buy him as a 17 year-old. And although he and Michael had great chemistry together onstage (it was an onstage romance I could actually believe and invest emotionally, which is a huge accomplishment), I couldn't help thinking that John looked like Michael's older brother or something.
Anyway, please no flames, I love BARE's entire cast and was completely blown away by their energy and talent. It's just that if I had to choose one person to possibly replace, it'd be poor John.
BlueWizard's blog: The Rambling Corner
HEDWIG: "The road is my home. In reflecting upon the people whom I have come upon in my travels, I cannot help but think of the people who have come upon me."