Add me to the camp who enjoyed it. I saw Friday evening's performance, and was preparing for the worst after hearig the bad reports...and ended up finding it very entertaining.
Sure, it's not as good as 'Hairspray', but I think the score is fun and suits the show very well.
And okay, I agree that the concept of breaking the fourth wall and the whole television idea (the sponsorships?!?) was a bizarre direction to take, but the charisma Aaron brings to the role and these sections won me over.
What I loved was the chemistry Aaron and Norbert had together. I found them funny, captivating and completely engrossed in the journey/chase/escape they were pursuing. Heck, I loved watching them interact with other characters, especially the family dinner scene and Hanratty interviewing Frank's parents!
While I feel Kerry's not so strong on the acting front, she delievers an outstanding performance with 'Fly, Fly Away'.
I think both Aaron and Norbert are both worthy of nominations, as they elevated the material superbly.
Everything in life...is only for now.