I understand everyones frustration where Zach is considered. I understand hes been with the show for so long, working his way up from ensemble/understudy to leading man. I actually saw him, and I really loved his portrayal of Dimitry. I absolutely adored him. Broadway is a TOUGH business, so to do what he did is extraordinary and shows what a strong performer he is.
However, as I'm sure we're all aware, at the end of the day, Broadway is a business. A production/producers could discover that someone that had COMPLETE faith in, enough to put up advertising with his face on it all over, is just not bringing in the money they expected. They know the show is loved-they know the show has a strong, incredibly strong fan base. But not all of those fans could be bringing in the money they need. So they have to consider all their options.
A name of a show alone can bring in big money- Hello Dolly! comes to mind. I actually don't think the two are comparable because Bette Midler is a much more known name than the actors who have been in Anastasia. Outside of the Anastasia fandom, I'm not sure if a lot of the cast names are well known. Also--while I'm here, I'd like to apologize if I'm rambling.
If a show isn't making money and producers see a way they could potentially bring in more people who haven't seen the show already-why would they hesitate? Yes, I definitely think Zach should have finished out his contract first. However, based on sales, I'm unsure if the show would have kept going? I think there have been plenty of actors who have been contracted for long runs, but for some reason or another, plans change for the better of the production. I doubt there's a vendetta against Zach. He is a dedicated professional who was the victim of unfortunate, rude circumstances.
I've been seeing so many comments about how Anastasia is closed because of Cody coming in. I've seen one comment thanking Anastasia-they have no plans to see Cody so they'll save money. Question: have these people seen Cody in the role? Have they heard him sing the songs? Have they even given him a CHANCE? It is very easy to judge when people don't know a persons theatrical background or if they find out they don't have any. It's very easy to judge if that person is known for something else, and you're not a fan of their other work. But if you're a fan of a show, don't you think you could be a little supportive? The producers wouldn't have blindly cast him. They have faith. And that's all Cody can ask of from you, and from Anastasia audiences.
Okay. I have rambled enough. Rant over. Sorry 
