It's just been announced that Carole Shelley who originated Madame Morrible in WICKED and then played the role twice more in the National Tour & Chicago will be reprising her role on Broadway on August 28th replacing Jayne Houdyshell.
I can't tell you how happy this makes me. Carole Shelley > anyone else who ever was or will be in Wicked. Even though I'm not nearly as into Wicked as I used to be, I would fly to New York just to see her if I could.
Dottie, you're so right about Alma Cuervo! I really love Carole Shelley in the role, but Alma Cuervo is the only other actress I've seen play the role without thinking, "she's not as good as Carole Shelley." She added some things of her own that were hilarious, yet she was every bit as chilling as she should have been in the right places.
Carole is Amazing, she really stood out to me when I saw the show, she's just so good at doing such small work, I really wish she'd do something else, something to really showcase her.
As usual, I am completely flumoxed by this naivete. Exactly HOW many opportunities are being offered women in her, shall we say, category? If she wants to WORK, having a role available in the BIGGEST SMASH ON BROADWAY is NOT a bad thing - no matter WHAT anyone thinks of the show!
Someday, maybe something can come along that her talents will deserve (things like THE ELEPHANT MAN only come along once in awhile.) Meanwhile, thank goodness she can continue to make a career out of appearing live - that's what she was made for.
"Winning a Tony this year is like winning Best Attendance in third grade: no one will care but the winner and their mom."
-Kad
"I have also met him in person, and I find him to be quite funny actually. Arrogant and often misinformed, but still funny."
-bjh2114 (on Michael Riedel)
Does anyone know how long her contract is? I have tickets for Wicked in April 2008 - taking my musical theatre class. Would LOVE to see an OBC member!!! Thanks!