BWW TV: PROMISES, PROMISES Video Preview! — Page 3

Posters keep writing "I can't believe they didn't use Bennett's choreography!"

I enjoy the original Turkey L. too, but what self-respecting choreographer trying to make a name for himself would choreograph a whole show, and then insert another man's work for the biggest number (If it were even legally possible to do so)?

I liked that Ashford made "Turkey" a part of the dance. The "Shake Your Tailfeathers" (1963, right from the period) moves gave a theme to the dance.

I saw the revival last week. Could have done without the interpolated songs, and I have a couple of other nitpicks, but overall I found it really entertaining. Sean Hayes was so funny and endearing.

I've been familiar with the score for years, but I had no idea the book was so good. And I thought the set design nailed not just 1962, but New York City 1962. The production design was gorgeous. That proscenium and those bronze statues could have been taken right out of Lincoln Center.

Without Bennett's choreography, "Turkey Lurkey" is a stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid song, devoid of any redeeming values EXCEPT Bennett's choreography.

If they were not going to use that choreography--and a self-respecting choreographer could have included it as a tribute to a man who inspired him, with appropriate credit in the program, as Ann Reinking did with Bob Fosse's "Hot Honey Rag"--they should have cut the song and interpolated any of a number of other songs, since interpolation was clearly ok under the ground rules of this production.

But to try to do other choreography to a song like ""Turkey Lurkey" is to invite ridicule.

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Imagine the uproar on this board if he'd simply cut Turkey Lurkey? The word pandemonium comes to mind.

Promises, Promises took place in the then current 1968. It did not take place in 1962 or any other year. The crassness of setting it in the earlier time period so they can try to - what - coattail Mad Men - is beyond ridiculous. And turkey moves = turkey choreography.

"But to try to do other choreography to a song like ""Turkey Lurkey" is to invite ridicule."

Reminds me of when Wayne Cilento re-choreographed Rich Man's Frug in the 2005 SWEET CHARITY revival. It's only asking for trouble.

I am amazed that the producers didn't realize the value of the mnumber with Bennett's choreography. It is sad because this show looks like it could use all the zing it can get.

And WickedFanatic, thanks for the lead to the better video. It's even better at 420p.

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Picky.

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