Bette Midler Confirms Broadway Return in HELLO DOLLY — Page 32

hork said" No, we don't need diversity every time. We didn't need it in Gentleman's Guide, which specifically poked fun at the English aristocracy, and for which a diverse cast wouldn't have made sense."


Race isn't one of the themes explored in Gentleman's Guide. It would've still made prefect sense with a diverse cast.

Cupid Boy2 said: "hork said" No, we don't need diversity every time. We didn't need it in Gentleman's Guide, which specifically poked fun at the English aristocracy, and for which a diverse cast wouldn't have made sense."


Race isn't one of the themes explored in Gentleman's Guide. It would've still made prefect sense with a diverse cast.

It might have made sense but it would have been a different show.

hork said: "It might have made sense but it would have been a different show."

If you're implying it would've been a lesser show, I disagree. Regardless of the cast members' skin colors, it would have still been a delightful and riotous parody of the class system. Can't we move beyond the point of getting so hung up on the race of characters aligning with "historical accuracy?" When not exploring themes that would prevent it, wouldn't it be much more interesting to create art that imagines what history would've been like had it been more inclusive or reflective of who we are today?

Updated On: 10/21/16 at 11:37 AM

Cupid Boy2 said: "hork said: "It might have made sense but it would have been a different show."

If you're implying it would've been a lesser show, I disagree. Regardless of the cast members' skin colors, it would have still been a delightful and riotous parody of the class system. Can't we move beyond the point of getting so hung up on the race of characters aligning with "historical accuracy?" When not exploring themes that would prevent it, wouldn't it be much more interesting to create art that imagines what history would've been like had it been more inclusive or reflective of who we are today?



I was implying no such thing. Different doesn't mean lesser. But it's interesting that you disagree with me that it'd be a different show, and then go on to describe a show that "imagines what history would've been like had it been more inclusive or reflective of who we are today" (i.e. a different show). It would have been a different show just like Hamilton is a different show than it would be with a white cast.

My disagreement was qualified with "if you're implying it would've been a lesser show." Given the post of yours that sparked this conversation and its stance against a diverse GG's cast, I think it was fair to address the possibility you might have been saying it would've been a lesser show seeing as you seemed to be against it.

I wonder if this show might actually have a surprise appearance at Macy's Thanksgiving Parade. Was Cinderella the last time they did a fall preview for a show that was coming the next year?

I don't have any actual insider knowledge but given the sales have been great and Bette Midler is likely a very busy person I don't know why they'd have much motivation to go through the effort of organising that kind of appearance (cf. shows that really do need the publicity). I guess we'll know soon though.

You'd be lucky to even find a ticket over your spring break anyway.

May be right, Cupidboy. I got one for Hamilton last spring though, a few months out, face value, so you never know.

As far as people knowing it's Midler up there, hence the explosion in ticket sales, no kidding! No idiocy involved here, but thanks.

It's just an opinion that a lot of people share when it comes to your bigger than life stars, including those in the movies. Even if you don't. Some actors and actresses in cinema have the same impact. I just can't lose them in their character anymore.

As much of a fan as I am of Midler, I think I'm almost more interested in seeing Donna in the role. And continue to see Midler when I can in concert.

My not taking in the show will neither hurt ticket sales nor BM's salary. So it's all moot anyway.

Just an opinion.

Elaine Stritch once made a great statement about when an actor has a strong persona, there's always going to be a part of them in their characterization. I have to find the full quote, but it made a lot of sense. When it someone larger than life like Stritch, Midler, LuPone, etc, of course you are going to be aware that it's them up there on the stage, that's part of the fun.

I'd like the marquee more if it was read all over with white lettering. The white doesn't make it stand out.

I'll be in the city next week. I have to stop by 44th Street just to soak this in. It's really happening!!!!!

Since all the ads say BETTE MIDLER / HELLO DOLLY in equal font - I think they mean both the lady and the property are 'back where they belong" [on Broadway] -- I think they could have accomplished the same thing (better) with the actual lyrics: "back where she belongs"