Does the movie help the show?

I am a long time fan of CABARET. It is, by far, my most favorite musical ever written. A brilliant stage work and the revival was truly a breathtaking production.

In my opinion, the revival of CABARET was far superior to that of the CHICAGO revival. Don't get me wrong. I still LOVE the CHICAGO revival production, and the show itself, for that matter.

I'm just wondering people's opinions as to why the CABARET revival has since closed, yet the CHICAHO revival thrives. What is it about the show that has kept it going.

Another questions is: Did the movie of CHICAGO help the show's sales, in any way? Was there that much of a boost in interest after the movie? Same with THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA?

I'm simply asking because I was wondering if you think a movie adptation of the show (not the Liza version but an actually movie adaptation of the CABARET revival) would have boost interest in the show and kept it going?

Any thoughts at all are appreciated.

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Updated On: 9/15/05 at 03:24 PM

Just judging by conversations I have or overhear with people at the Majestic, I'd say the movie has brought in some new theatre-goers to Phantom, at least.

Don't know about Chicago or Cabaret, as I haven't followed those two.

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I going to guess that one of the reason the CHICAGO revivial has lasted so long is that it cheaper to keep going. Mininal sets, costumes, etc. Also, CHICAGO is sort of rediscovered classic, unlike CABARET which has been around for years in many incarnations.

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The Cabaret movie is older and probably helped the first revival if everything.

The most recent revival distanced itself from the original more than the first revival, starring Joel Grey.

I love the new Chicago staging for the fact that it is simple and easy. It shouldn't be a bright, flashy show. I think the minimal staging of it is similar to that of the most recent Cabaret revival.

Chicago also appeals more to toursists than a show like Cabaret, I think.

ljay889 - indeedy, you are right. Watching Ann Reinking's glorious work is just dreamy *sigh.*

I actually loved the Chicago movie and thought it was very well done. I have just learned to separate the movie and the stage show - and enjoy both. Too bad the unsuspecting theatregoers are often in for a surprise (and sometimes, depending on what they like, disapponitment) when expecting the stage version to be just like the movie.

Cabaret on the other hand - love, love, love it on stage. Not as crazy about the movie for some reason. But that's just me.

Speaking of stage to movie while I'm on a soapbox - not to threadjack, but it reminds me of my struggle with Godspell which, in my opinion, is a terrible movie. Too bad, because on stage it can be quite beautiful and moving (not to mention the music is simply splendid).