I didn't and don't mean my comments as an insult or put down to tourists. It takes all kinds to make theatre successful. Besides, I'm tourist trade myself.
But, in my opinion, what a tourist these days is looking to see would be something familiar or something that has gotten a giant stamp of approval from other tourists; Jersey Boys, Mamma Mia, Wicked, anything Disney - no matter how bad, and of course Grease, again; no matter how bad. There's a familiarity with these shows, almost a safety net if you will. When you're paying a ton of money for a night at the theatre; be it a single, a couple, or a family, you want to know there will be at least the chance you'll enjoy the show. I don't think the majority of tourists gravitate towards something original, especially when it touts itself as being a good old-fashioned Broadway Musical.
I think too, that people more familiar with theatre, both professionally or as regular patrons, are more apt to take in a show like Curtains, or at least give it a try. I think with this type of theatre-goer, there's more of an understanding of the broad characters and inside humor, and of course the excitment of a new Kander and Ebb score, because they know who Kander and Ebb are and the many wonderful scores and shows which have come before Curtains. Familiarity.
As with all things, I'm sure there are exceptions - there always will be, I'm just sorry that shows like Curtains aren't among them. Still it had a good run, but apparently not a good bottom line and that's really what matters. After all - all together now...
..."It's a Business!."
Updated On: 3/25/08 at 07:22 AM
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