Chuck Wagner is Van Helsing December 1 BOTH SHOWS — Page 2

I just walked in the door after seeing Chuck play the hell out of Van Helsing in the 8 PM show. Also subbing tonight was Shonn Wiley as Harker, who I thought had a very good voice and was fairly natural in the role. My memory is hazy so I can't really pinpoint any major differences from the La Jolla production, which is the only time I've seen the show until now. All I'll say is that the performers, designers, and Wildhorn all deserve more respect than they've been getting for the show. My opinion of the show itself has not changed much, but I do think most of the performers did a valiant job with such a clunky book and distractingly odd lyrics. No one disputes how visually stunning it is, and I think Wildhorn has written what could have been one of his most legit, most well-respected scores under different circumstances.

Chuck was, of course fabulous and fabulously overqualified for the role he stepped into. But it was great to see him onstage in any capacity! It's been too long and, judging by the number of people around me who perked up when he made his entrance, I'm not the only one who thinks so. I can't compare him to the usual Van Helsing actor, who I obviously have not seen, but Chuck never fails to command the stage and make even the most awkward lines sound fantastic. Chuck, if you read this, PLEASE let us know the next time you fill in for a role, especially if it's for Tom!!! People on this board need to see you backflipping thru the air as Dracula!

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Updated On: 12/1/04 at 11:08 PM

I'm not ashamed that I love both Jekyll/Hyde and Pimpernel... both of which have enjoyed considerable contributions by Mr. Wagner in days past. maybe that's the shot in the arm Dracula needs, a little Chuck'll do ya good. and maybe someone could get Clemmons out of the office and back on a stage.

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Lets all keep the fingers crossed that when Tom Hewitt bows out of Dracula, Mr. Wagner is invited to take over the role.

Nothing against Tom Hewitt meant at all. I happen to love him a lot:) Like...a lot!

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Still heart broken I couldn't go. Chuck MUST perform as Dracula before the show ends.

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Odd...I didn't think Tom had "mussed" up any of his performances-all the ones I've seen have been quite nice.

All kidding aside, "the other guy" was the talented Graham Rowat.

Updated On: 12/6/04 at 11:26 AM